CHANGES TO LOOK OUT FOR INCLUDE:

• Size or shape – e.g. one breast might become larger or lower than the other.

• Skin texture – such as puckering or dimpling.

• Appearance or direction of nipple – e.g. one nipple might become inverted (turned-in).

• Discharge – one or both nipples might discharge a blood-stained liquid.

• Rash or crusting of the nipple or surrounding area.

• Lump in the breast or armpit.

• Lumpy area or unusual thickening of breast tissue that doesn’t go away after a woman’s period.

• Pain in part of the breast or armpit that is unrelated to periods.

Breakthrough recommends that women should get into the habit of feeling and looking at their breasts frequently and at different times during their monthly cycle.

Victoria Harmer - Clinical Nurse Specialist, Breast Care St Mary’s Hospital, London

“Handling your breasts with TLC is a fantastic concept. Hopefully this slogan will become as well known in the UK as Slip, Slap, Slop is in Australia where it has illustrated the importance of making skin cancer prevention part of an everyday routine.”

Dr Sarah Rawlings - Head of Policy Breakthrough Breast Cancer

“It’s normal for breasts to change in appearance and feel different during your monthly cycle. For example, women having periods may have lumpy, tender breasts just before their period. Also, after the menopause, breasts may feel softer and less lumpy. These changes are normal and 9 out of 10 lumps are not cancerous.”

Judy Fearn - Aged 53 Breakthrough supporter

“Like many women I knew it was important to check my breasts but I wasn’t sure I was doing it correctly and worried that if I didn’t follow a complicated routine I might miss something. Fortunately, I read a magazine feature on being breast aware which explained it wasn’t necessary to follow a procedure but that I should get to know what my breasts look and feel like normally. From that day on I have regularly checked my breasts.

“In April 2000 I found a lump in my breast and, as the article suggested, I presented myself to my GP without delay. Unfortunately the lump was found to be cancerous but being diagnosed early meant I had the best chance of successful treatment. To this day I think that magazine feature may have saved my life.

“I love the idea of showing your breasts some TLC and think this memorable message will enable many other women to spot the warning signs earlier.”

Ode to Boobs by Pip Bishop

Dear boobs,

This heartfelt apology goes out to you all
For moaning you're too big or moaning you're too small

For wishing you didn't hang like puppies in sacks
Or just disappear when we lie on our backs

For squashing you flat with a minimising cup
or those torture bras that push you right up

Why is it always your bad points we mention
Like your inverted nips or your water retention?

Why don't we love you as much as our men
Or the babies that love you all over again?

Maybe we're scared to show you we care
In case, one day, your simply not there

To find out more about Breakthrough Breast Cancer please call 08080 100 200 or visit

www.breakthrough.org.uk