A woman's risk of developing breast cancer has increased according to research just released by Cancer Research UK. The charity has found that breast cancer rates in the UK have risen by 3.5% in the past 10 years. One in eight women in the UK will now develop breast cancer, up from one in nine. This makes breast cancer by far the most common cancer in women, accounting for a third of cases.

Cancer Research UK says the rise in numbers can be partly attributed to lifestyle changes, with women drinking more, eating less healthily and exercising less. Having babies later in life also adds to the risk.

However, the report does have some good news, for while rates of the disease are increasing survival rates are improving, with two-thirds of women with breast cancer now surviving 20 years or more.

Survival rates are greatly increased for women who are diagnosed early and Sara Hiom, Cancer Research UK's director of health information stressed the importance of regular breast cancer screening.

“Mammograms will pick up breast cancers early on before they can be felt as a lump or spotted through other visible changes, and we know that the earlier a cancer is detected the more successful treatment is likely to be so women can benefit by taking up invitations to breast screening,” she said.

The findings have caused increased alarm amongst healthcare professionals in Spain who have for a long time worried that too many British women living here are missing out on vital screening tests.

Said Dr Najma Hussain from British GP practice, Medcare, “Many British women are failing to have mammograms either because they are not entitled under the Spanish system, don't understand how to get a mammogram in Spain or are daunted by the language. We hope that the release of these new figures will make more women understand the importance of regular screening and seek help.”

In an attempt to increase the uptake of screening by British women in Spain, Medcare is working closely with a Spanish screening centre and will organise appointments for non-Spanish speaking patients. Medcare has also negotiated reduced cost mammograms for its patients.

Women between the ages of 50 and 69 are most at risk of developing breast cancer, but all women over the age of 50 should have regular screening. If you have a family history of breast cancer, or fall into a high-risk group, it may be advisable to start screening younger.

To find out more about organising a mammogram through Medcare call 96 686 0258 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Medcare is the only British GP service on the Costa Blanca. In addition to full GP surgery, Medcare offers a wide range of healthcare services in English including dental, cosmetic treatments, osteopathy, podiatry and specialist diabetes care. Details of all Medcare's services are available at www.medcarespain.com or call 96 686 0258.

SPECIAL OFFER

Medcare is offering both its membership and health check plan patients half-price screening.

Women can book in for a cervical smear test and a mammogram for just €85 - half the usual price.

Alternatively you can book for a Mammogram for only €55 if you do not require a smear.

Don’t take risks with your life – join Medcare today and take advantage of half-price breast and cervical cancer screening, and enjoy a host of other health benefits too.

It could just save your life!!

Photos:
PDF of Medcare’s offer – mammogram medcare promo.pdf

Karen - Please don’t use full PDF as I have copied the text into the article – perhaps the woman checking her breast, and the Medcare log (but SMALL!)