A letter from Linda Nolan, Breast Cancer Campaign's wear it pink ambassador

Sir October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and many of your readers will have experienced or been affected by breast cancer. Recently it was announced that UK breast cancer mortality rates had decreased but there are still around 46,000 new cases diagnosed every year and around 12,000 deaths. Breast cancer research has been integral to the reduction of mortality rates over the past 20 years, leading to improvements in diagnosis, treatment and care. Increased awareness and the introduction of the NHS screening programme have also played a significant role. However, in the UK, current mortality rates are above the European average. It is essential that we continue to raise awareness about the signs of breast cancer, particularly in older women, who are most at risk (80 per cent of cases are in post-menopausal women). Having experienced breast cancer myself along with other members of my family, I urge women to become familiar with how their breasts look and feel and understand how they may change at different times during the month, for example, when you’re having your period and as you get older. Take note of these five simple steps which could save your life; know what is normal for you, look and feel, know what changes to look for, attend breast screening if aged 50 or over and report any changes to your GP without delay. Remember the earlier the diagnosis, the better the chance of survival. On Friday 29 October, people all over the UK will wear it pink to raise money so that Breast Cancer Campaign can continue to fund vital research, taking us a step closer to beating breast cancer. Join the many schools, colleges, businesses and individuals around the country by wearing something pink and donating £2. For further information and a fundraising pack go to www.wearitpink.co.uk Linda Nolan, Breast Cancer Campaign’s wear it pink ambassador

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