NiP Winter 2022 issue | Page 33

‘ IT MADE SUCH A DIFFERENCE GETTING A PROMPT DIAGNOSIS ’

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We estimate that there are 35,000 people living with metastatic ( secondary ) breast cancer in the UK . But with information and support �ervi�e� o�en �o���ed on primary breast cancer , and overstretched healthcare professionals who might only see a few cases of metastatic breast cancer in their career , i��� o�en �i��ed .
At Breast Cancer Now , we ’ re steered by world-class research and powered by life-changing support . And we ’ re determined to improve treatment , care and services for people living with metastatic breast cancer – now and in the future .
Crucially , we ’ re committed to working with healthcare professionals , to make sure that anyone diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer can get the support they need as quickly as possible .
Signs and symptoms to look out for Nearly one in four people with metastatic breast cancer visit their GP three or more times before they ’ re diagnosed . And around 20 % are treated for another condition first *.
A prompt diagnosis can dramatically improve the quality of life for your patients . That ’ s why we want to support healthcare professionals , so that you can spot the disease earlier .
Information for you We have a range of trusted , peerreviewed health information freely available in print and online to support you and your patients . From a Signs and symptoms of breast cancer recurrence infographic to our ��er �rea�� �an�er g�ide , we ’ ve got the resources you and any patients with a history of breast cancer need to feel more confident in spotting metastatic breast cancer .
You can order or download our free publications at breastcancernow . org / publications
Tailored support Whatever your patients are going through , we ’ re here for them . We offer a range of free support services , with online , phone and face-to-face options .
• Our Living with Secondary Breast Cancer group sessions are facilitated by trained counsellors . They offer tailored support and information , and the chance for patients to share what ’ s on their mind with other people who understand what they ’ re going through
• For women under 45 , who might have different concerns to older patients , there ’ s Younger Women with Secondaries Together . Taking place over four weeks , the online sessions give younger women the chance to connect with each other , in a safe and welcoming space
• For any questions or worries about metastatic breast cancer , our free Helpline or Ask Our Nurses email are here . No question is too big or too small , and all calls and emails are answered by breast care nurses and specially trained staff
• Our online discussion Forum has a space just for people with metastatic breast cancer , where they can listen , share and support each other
Find out more about support for your patients with metastatic breast cancer at breastcancernow . org / information-support / support-you
Learn the signs and symptoms of metastatic breast cancer at breastcancernow . org / sbcsymptoms
Possible signs of metastatic breast cancer include :
‘ It made such a difference getting a prompt diagnosis once I visited the GP , allowing me to start my treatment as quickly as possible .’
Becky , living with metastatic breast cancer
Unexpected weight loss and loss of appetite
Severe or ongoing headaches Altered vision or speech
Loss of balance or any weakness or numbness to the limbs
Any lumps or swelling under the arm , breastbone or collarbone
Discomfort or swelling under the ribs or across the upper abdomen
A dry cough or feeling out of breath Feeling sick most of the time Feeling much more tired than usual
Pain in the bones , for example in the back , hips or ribs , that doesn ’ t get better with pain relief and may be worse at night
Breast Cancer Now is a charity registered in England and Wales ( 1160558 ), Scotland ( SC045584 ), and the Isle of Man ( 1200 ). * Findings from our 2019 survey of 2,000 people living with metastatic breast cancer .