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Guernsey residents are being reminded to complete cancer checks which could save lives, and to ask questions if they are unsure.
Between 55 - 60 islanders get diagnosed with breast cancer every year, and although most people are aware of the disease, there are still myths floating about which muddy the waters.
It is something that Sharon Treacy, a Breast Nurse Consultant in Guernsey, feels passionate about.
“Usually if I see any young people at the Symptomatic Clinic, I will go over how to check yourself. In case they’re not sure what to look out for, and just allay any fears, and demystify some of the myths around what causes breast cancer.
“People used to think that types of deodorant, tight fitting bras and things like that would give you breast cancer. Whereas it’s about lifestyle."
“So exercise, diet and alcohol intake. They’re the biggest things that have stayed with us over the years. These are the things that do contribute, alongside genetic or environmental factors.”
Pictured: Sharon Treacy, Breast Nurse Consultant, hopes education and engagement will help dispel some myths, and make things a little clearer for islanders.
Di Mathews is the Strategic Lead for Screening.
She says the number one tip is to know your own body.
“Know what’s normal for you, and know when something changes, and then go see your GP. If you think you should have been invited for screening, and you haven’t been, then never worry about phoning the unit, they’ll always be happy to help solve any issue.
“Don’t worry about checking, don’t think ‘oh I don’t know how to do it so I won’t do it’. Go on, do some checking, and contact people for help.”
If you would like to know more about Breast Cancer Screenings, what is involved and how you can make sure you are up to date with your checks, you can visit the Breast Screening Unit’s webpage.
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