October Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026
Each year, about 55,000 people are diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK.
It is more common in people over 50, but it can also affect younger people.
Whether you’ve been affected by breast cancer or just want to find out more, Macmillan can help.
If you are worried about breast cancer or you have questions about treatments, you are not alone. Visit ⬇️
Breast Cancer Awareness Month | Macmillan Cancer Support
Breast screening (mammogram)
NHS breast screening uses X-rays, called mammograms, to look for cancers that are too small to see or feel.
NHS breast screening is offered to women aged 50 up to your 71st birthday. Everyone registered with a GP as female will be invited. You’ll automatically get your first invitation for breast screening between the ages of 50 and 53. You’ll then be invited every 3 years until your 71st birthday.
Regularly checking your breasts helps you become familiar with what’s normal, so you can notice changes early and seek medical advice promptly.
Symptoms to look and feel for when checking your breasts or chest include:
- a lump or swelling in your breast, chest or armpit
- a change in the skin of your breast, such as dimpling (it may look like orange peel) or redness, which may be harder to see on black or brown skin
- a change in size or shape of 1 or both breasts, or either side of your chest – it’s common for breasts to be different sizes, but check for any changes that are not normal for you
- nipple discharge (if you’re not pregnant or breastfeeding), which may have blood in it
- a change in the shape or look of your nipple, such as it turning inwards (inverted nipple) or a rash on it (it may look like eczema)
- sores or ulcers on your chest
Please click ➡️ How to check your breasts or chest – NHS
Breast cancer information and support | Macmillan Cancer Support
