Breast Cancer Awareness Month at Stonefield Surgery...
Stonefield Surgery has done an incredible job, and they deserve a big congratulations for winning the competition. They actively supported the NHS local breast screening campaign and even won a competition for the best display. Naomi Duff, who is a Cancer Screening Improvement Lead from the Bolton, Bury & Rochdale Breast Screening Programme, visited the surgery on November 22nd to reward the Practice Manager, Jo Lees, with a certificate and some chocolates. Stonefield Surgery made a significant difference by supporting breast cancer awareness and stepping up for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Stonefield Surgery has gone above and beyond to raise awareness about breast cancer and screening, by creating a poster specifically geared towards men, even though breast cancer in men is rare. The surgery has always made efforts to promote breast cancer awareness, but due to COVID, the uptake has decreased. They hope that this new initiative will encourage more patients to go for screenings. The team at Stonefield Surgery is doing an incredible job in promoting early detection, which can help save lives.
About Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a topic that deserves attention. It's a type of cancer that forms in the cells of the breasts. Early detection through regular breast screenings and self-exams is crucial for successful treatment. It's important to spread awareness about the importance of screenings and support those affected by breast cancer. Around 55,200 people are diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK each year. That is around 150 people a day. 1 in 8 women in the UK develop breast cancer during their lifetime. 1 in 870 men develop it. Most of the women who get breast cancer have had their menopause, but about 2 out of every 10 (20%) are under 50 years old. Breast cancer risk can be affected by age, family history and lifestyle factors such as obesity and smoking.
Why should I be screened?
Breast screening is a crucial part of early detection of breast cancer. It involves a mammogram, which is an X-ray of the breast. Regular screening can help detect any abnormalities or changes in the breast tissue, even before any symptoms are present. It's recommended that women aged 50-74 have a mammogram every two years. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best screening plan for you based on your individual risk factors. Remember, early detection saves lives!
About the screening process...
1. Make an appointment: Reach out to your healthcare provider or a local screening centre to schedule your mammogram.
2. Preparation: On the day of your appointment, avoid using deodorant, lotion, or powder on your chest area, as they can interfere with the mammogram results.
3. Arrive at the screening centre: When you arrive, you'll be asked to fill out some paperwork and provide any necessary information.
4. The mammogram: During the mammogram, you'll be asked to undress from the waist up and put on a gown. The technician will position your breast on a special X-ray machine, and a compression paddle will be used to flatten the breast temporarily. This may cause some discomfort, but it only lasts for a few seconds.
5. Image capture: The X-ray machine will take images of your breast from different angles. It's important to stay still and follow the technician's instructions.
6. Results: After the mammogram, the images will be reviewed by a radiologist. You'll receive the results within a few weeks. If there are any concerns or abnormalities, further tests may be recommended.
If you are unsure about this screening procedure and would like to discuss it, they are holding a series of ‘breast screening information clinics’ at the surgery and would like to invite you to pop in for a chat. This 10-minute consultation will address any concerns you have and will fully explain what the test involves.
To book a ‘breast screening information clinic, please contact the surgery and request an appointment.
Telephone: 01706 646234
Address: Stonefield Street Surgery, 21 Stonefield Street, Milnrow, OL16 4JQ
Or you can pop into the surgery and speak to a care coordinator/receptionist about booking an appointment.
Remember, their screenings are due in February 2024, so if you haven't been booked in or invited for a screening yet don't worry.
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