In response to figures showing early cancer diagnosis in England reaching highest ever level, Claire Rowney, chief executive of Breast Cancer Now, said:
“While it’s positive that these figures show a small improvement in the percentage of common cancers being diagnosed at stage 1 and 2, there’s still much more to do to ensure as many breast cancers as possible are diagnosed at the earliest stages.
“Currently, far too many women are missing out on vital breast screening that can detect the disease at the earliest stages, when treatment is most likely to be successful.
“Furthermore, it’s deeply worrying that so many people continue to endure lengthy, anxious waits to have possible breast cancer symptoms checked out, receive a diagnosis and start the vital treatment that gives them the best chance of survival.
“We know that guaranteeing breast cancer patients an early diagnosis is fundamental to saving more lives from the disease. Which is why Breast Cancer Now is calling for urgent action to improve uptake of breast screening, alongside speeding up breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.
“At Breast Cancer Now, we also want every woman to know the importance of regular breast checking, and the many different signs and symptoms of breast cancer, so they feel empowered to regularly check their breasts, and get any new or unusual breast changes checked by a GP. Anyone looking for support or information, can speak to our expert nurses now by calling our free and confidential Helpline on 0808 800 6000.”
ENDS