Fertility Care & Breast Health - Q3 2025

Fertility Care & Breast Health Q3 2025 | A promotional supplement distributed on behalf of Mediaplanet, which takes sole responsibility for its content

www.healthawareness.co.uk

“Counselling through fertility treatments is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.”

“For most UK women, breast cancer is curable, whatever age they present.”

Samantha Williams, Media Officer BICA (British Infertility Counselling Association)

Ms Sarah Downey, Association of Breast Surgery President, Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon, and Honorary Senior Lecturer

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The evolution of fertility treatment in the UK Learn about how the UK fertility sector has changed over the past 30 years and how the regulator is working to raise awareness of disparities in access and patient experiences.

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ertility treatment has changed rapidly since the HFEA, the UK regulator of fertility treatment, was first set up in 1991 — from the rise in the number of IVF babies born to the technological advances made within the sector itself.

WRITTEN BY Julia Chain Chair, HFEA

One child in every classroom As UK fertility rates reach a record low, our data shows that treatment is helping more people in the UK have babies. In 2023, almost 21,000 babies were born from IVF.1 That’s around one child in every classroom.

Recent years have also seen an increase in patients from different family types having treatment, with female same-sex couples and single patients accounting for one in six of all IVF and donor insemination (DI) treatments taking place in 2022.2 However, disparities remain. Asian and black fertility patients have lower birth rates3 and are less likely to report being satisfied with their treatment.4 Female same-sex couples and single patients are three times less likely to receive NHS funding for treatment than opposite-sex couples.5 Only just over a quarter of IVF cycles in the UK are NHS-funded,6 and NHS patients are experiencing longer waiting times than those who are funding their own treatment.4 Regulating a changing environment The HFEA operates within the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act, which was the first of its kind anywhere in the world. Around 100,000 treatment cycles a year take place

in the UK, and fertility treatment is very safe.7 So much has changed since 1991. Some aspects of care now happen online, and the information available from a range of sources can be overwhelming. For donor-conceived people, although a change in the law in 2005 meant egg, sperm and embryo donors donating on or after 1 April 2005 would become identifiable once someone born of their donation turned 18, direct-to-consumer DNA testing kits mean anonymity can no longer be guaranteed until that point.

Updating outdated fertility legislation Parts of the Act are now out of date. So, in 2023, we published a series of proposals to modernise fertility law, so we can continue regulating the sector as effectively as possible.

In the meantime, we continue to work across the sector to improve fertility services for those seeking a longed-for family and speak up for patients — who have always been, and will always be, at the heart of what we do.

References: 1. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. 2025. Fertility treatment 2023: trends and figures.

2. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. 2024. Preliminary UK family type statistics for IVF and DI treatment, storage and donation.

3. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. 2023. Ethnic diversity in fertility treatment 2021.

4. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. 2025. National Patient Survey 2024.

5. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. 2024. Family formations in fertility treatment 2022.

6. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. 2025. Fertility treatment 2023: trends and figures.

7. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. 2024. State of the fertility sector 2023/24.

Supporting the LGBTQIA+ community on the journey to parenthood Explore our fertility journey as a LGBTQIA+ couple, highlighting barriers, resilience and the need for inclusive access to fertility treatment for all.

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y wife and I decided to have children after we updated our civil partnership to marriage when it came into law. However, we didn’t have access to NHS fertility funding, so we self-funded privately. After 13 cycles over 13 years of intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and a miscarriage, we had our four miracle babies.

WRITTEN BY Laura-Rose Thorogood CEO at Make Birth Better, Founder of LGBT Mummies, Trustee at Fertility Action, and member of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists’ Women’s Network

Find a supportive fertility care team We were incredibly lucky to find a safe, compassionate and inclusive clinic, with healthcare professionals who listened to our needs, understood us and acknowledged they would educate themselves further about LGBTQIA+ fertility care.

They supported us through the hardest of times — our failed cycles, when we lost our baby — and they celebrated with us when we got our positive pregnancies. They became family over the years and stood by us as allies.

Navigating the negatives We faced a multitude of barriers, from lack of NHS fertility funding and financial strain to discrimination and the

erasure of our experiences as non-biological mothers.

Alongside this, we navigated failed cycles, secondary infertility, birth trauma, PCOS and baby loss, which had a huge psychological impact on us both.

Consider potential risks and benefits for your family For members of the LGBTQIA+ community who are considering or beginning fertility treatment, it’s crucial to explore every potential pathway to parenthood. Consider the legal, physical and psychological benefits, as well as risks, so you can make a fully informed decision about which path to take. Finding inclusive, safe spaces is also vital to help protect your wellbeing throughout the fertility journey.

Equitable access to NHS fertility treatment Too often, LGBTQIA+ people and couples face significant additional obstacles to accessing fertility treatment, including financial and cultural barriers. Equitable access to NHS-funded, high-quality fertility treatment is vital.

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Breaking the stigma: supporting men and women through fertility challenges Misconceptions and stigma around infertility often lead to a lack of male support. Consultant gynaecologist and medical director opens the conversation, highlighting the importance of inclusive support.

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en often take a backseat when it comes to fertility investigations, with the focus traditionally placed on women’s health.

However, Dr James Nicopoullos, Consultant Gynaecologist and Medical Director of Lister Fertility Clinic, explains why this focus needs to change.

INTERVIEW WITH Mr James Nicopoullos Consultant Gynaecologist, Sub-Specialist in Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, and Medical Director, Lister Fertility Clinic

Importance of inclusive support Fertility treatment is notoriously difficult — not just physically, but emotionally, mentally, socially and financially. “The emotional toll of infertility is immense, with some studies suggesting that the stress levels can be comparable to those experienced in serious medical conditions,” says Dr Nicopoullos.

While support services are often provided to women, sometimes, men can feel left behind. “Men can feel excluded from parts of the process, including emotional support. However, men’s health is a crucial component of fertility and should be addressed from the start,”

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WRITTEN BY Bethany Cooper

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Addressing the stigma of fertility “Infertility is often thought of as a woman’s issue, but that simply isn’t the case,” explains Dr Nicopoullos. “Around half of cases of infertility involve male factors, yet men are historically underrepresented within investigation and support. Too often, couples are pushed into IVF without a comprehensive assessment of the man’s health.”

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he adds. “Alongside evidence-based treatments, some patients explore therapies like acupuncture or reflexology.

Evidence on outcomes is mixed, but they can help reduce stress. The minefield of online information can be challenging, which is where we can help.”

Open-door counselling services HCA Healthcare’s Lister Fertility Clinic is one of the UK’s longest-established IVF units with a 37-year history and over 23,000 babies born. Emotional support is seen as integral to treatment, and the clinic offers every patient free access to highly skilled and experienced counsellors before, during and even years after treatment.

“Our open-door policy means people never have to face it alone,” assures Dr Nicopoullos. “The chance of having a baby with IVF is highly variable and reduces with age. But success doesn’t just depend on the biology; it also depends on how much you can manage physically, emotionally and financially.”

He concludes: “While our clinic improves the medical chances, emotional support gives patients the stamina to return for more cycles, empowering them to keep going.”

Saving your fertility today, so you have the chance to use it tomorrow As people embark on parenthood later in life, fertility preservation is on the rise. A consultant gynaecologist explains the importance of focusing on your individual needs amidst misleading online information.

O INTERVIEW WITH Mr Rehan Salim Consultant Gynaecologist, Subspecialist in Reproductive Medicine, and Medical Director, Lister Fertility Clinic at the Portland Hospital WRITTEN BY Bethany Cooper

ver the last decade, the path to parenthood has seen remarkable adjustments.

A shift in traditional relationships, career priorities and financial pressures is seeing more people delay the decision to start a family.

Fertility preservation today “Fertility preservation is about saving your fertility today, so you have the chance to use it later,” explains Mr Rehan Salim, Consultant Gynaecologist and Medical Director of The Lister Fertility Clinic at The Portland Hospital. “What began as an option for patients facing medical treatments like chemotherapy has now become something much more

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Find out more about Mr James Nicopoullos and book an appointment:

far-reaching.”

Mr Salim attributes this rising demand to a growing awareness of fertility preservation treatments, alongside ongoing improvements in fertility techniques. With more women balancing their careers and financial stability over starting a family, fertility preservation becomes an increasingly valuable way to keep all options open.

Improvements in fertility care With technological advancement and innovation comes improvements to fertility care, meaning higher success rates than ever before. “One area we have seen remarkable improvements is in the thawing stage of the procedure, where the techniques

involved are becoming extremely refined,” says Mr Salim.

“Fertility preservation offers a realistic hope for the future,” he adds. “We know that a woman’s eggs naturally reduce in number and quality with age. Freezing them earlier in life means you’re saving your best potential now, giving yourself access to today’s outcomes even when you’re older.”

Cutting through commercialisation HCA Healthcare opened its dedicated Lister Fertility Clinic at The Portland Hospital, London, in 2022, experiencing rapid growth. “We are the only fertility clinics in London situated inside a private hospital,” Mr Salim explains. “This level of expertise and infrastructure on hand means that we can manage complex cases.”

Rather than urging people through the doors at scale, they focus on guidance and clarity. “We are keen to help people cut through misinformation, such as misleading results from at-home testing kits or myths about supplements and nutrition, and instead focus on people’s personal goals based on science,” he says.

Emphasising the importance of considered decision-making, Mr Salim highlights that for many, IVF offers a tangible hope for the future, while for others, it may not be necessary. “It is important to think carefully. We are here to guide you to make the right decision.”

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Discover more about Lister Fertility Clinic:

Find out more about Mr Rehan Salim and book an appointment:

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Behind the science, beyond the stress: the power of counselling in fertility treatment Fertility treatments can be emotionally taxing, physically demanding and, often, financially challenging.

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he British Infertility Counselling Association (BICA) was established in 1988 by Jennie Hunt and has played a fundamental role in shaping the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority’s (HFEA) approach to counselling provision. Today, BICA continues to uphold high standards of patient care through its specialist accreditation scheme.

WRITTEN BY Samantha Williams Media Officer BICA (British Infertility Counselling Association)

One of the key benefits of counselling throughout treatment would be emotional regulation.

Fertility counselling is crucial Fertility counselling is a crucial component during fertility treatments. Patients experience overwhelming emotional, psychological stress as they navigate cycles of hope, disappointment, grief, anxiety and sometimes guilt. These feelings can be compounded by the pressures of timelines, invasive procedures and repeated disappointment. Counselling offers a confidential space to explore feelings and make sense of this emotional rollercoaster.

Counselling can offer individuals or couples a space to make informed and emotionally grounded decisions around treatment — whether that’s to continue treatment; take a break; consider alternative paths such as adoption and surrogacy; or stop. This space for reflection can be especially crucial after multiple unsuccessful cycles.

Donor conception For those considering donor conception, implications counselling by a trained fertility counsellor is essential and can help with exploring fears and anxieties, as well as understanding UK legal requirements and concepts around raising a child born through donor conception. It can give people a sense of stability and informed choice at what can be a challenging and complex time.

One of the key benefits of counselling throughout treatment would be emotional regulation. By working with a fertility-trained therapist, patients can develop coping strategies to manage stress, maintain realistic expectations and build a sense of resilience. Counselling also helps to enhance communication between partners and support networks, reducing isolation and improving shared understanding during challenging decisions.

Empowering individuals and families Fertility treatment is more than just medicine; it is about people, emotions and deeply personal dreams. Counselling through fertility treatments is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.

It empowers people to move through uncertainty with clarity, compassion and hope. It supports emotional wellbeing and helps people find meaning and strength as they move towards building the family they long for.

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Innovative insemination tech is changing fertility care in Britain

alternative that empowers you to actively manage your fertility while awaiting IVF.

Becoming a parent isn’t always easy. Many UK couples face strict NHS IVF criteria, long waits and reduced funding — making treatment harder than ever.

O WRITTEN BY Benjamin Tee (PhD) Co-founder, twoplus Fertility

nly 27% of IVF cycles were funded by the NHS in 2022, a sharp decline from 40% in 2012.1 This disparity is made worse by the ‘postcode lottery,’ where your chance of getting NHS IVF varies dramatically depending on where you live.

and frustrated.

If you find yourself stuck in the NHS IVF waiting game or have been refused IVF, it’s crucial to remember that this is not a reflection on you or your partner.

Importantly, your journey towards starting a family need not come to a standstill.

Urgent need for free or affordable IVF Navigating the NHS IVF system can feel like you’re up against an immovable barrier, with an extensive list of eligibility criteria and dwindling support. Being refused or placed on a lengthy waiting list can be one of the most trying times in your fertility journey, leaving you feeling powerless and stuck in limbo. These challenges can make the path to parenthood feel isolating, and it’s completely understandable to feel disappointed

At-home intracervical insemination While IVF may be your ultimate plan, you don’t have to stop trying.

There is a science-backed, affordable at-home alternative that can help you move towards your goal of becoming a parent while waiting for access to NHS IVF. If you’re keen to get started right away, you might consider trying intracervical insemination (ICI).

Recognised by NICE, ICI presents a less invasive, scientifically supported

Paid for by twoplus Fertility

What exactly is ICI? ICI involves placing sperm at the cervix, or the entrance of the womb.2 This helps more sperm reach the egg, improving your chances of getting pregnant. Studies indicate that ICI has a pregnancy success rate of up to 58% over six cycles of treatment when using fresh semen.3 Traditionally performed in clinics, ICI is now accessible at home, thanks to advancements like the twoplus Applicator Extra. Unlike standard syringes on the market, which are typically used for intravaginal insemination (IVI), the twoplus Applicator Extra is designed with a unique Sperm CradleTM Technology that holds sperm close to the cervix.

It takes the stress out of trying, allowing you to inseminate in the privacy, comfort and flexibility of home. With over 40,000+ kits sold in the UK, the twoplus Applicator Extra stands out as a superior choice for couples seeking a reliable home fertility solution.

References: 1. Campbell, D. 2024. Sharp fall in number of NHS IVF procedures across UK, report finds. Guardian.

2. NICE. 2013. Fertility problems: assessment and treatment.

3. Kop, Petronella et. al., 2019. The AID study: protocol for a randomised controlled trial of intrauterine insemination in the natural cycle compared with intracervical insemination in the natural cycle. BMJ Open. Vol 9,7 e026065.

Find out more at uk.twoplus fertility.com

Closing gaps with the global breast cancer initiative Accelerating progress on breast cancer requires an equity-focused lens — the Global Breast Cancer Initiative provides a way forward.

WRITTEN BY Dr Mary Nyangasi Technical Officer, Cancer (Technical Lead, Global Breast Cancer Initiative)

WRITTEN BY Dr Jeremy Farrar Assistant Director General, World Health Organization (WHO)

A global challenge with unequal impact Breast cancer touches the lives of millions of women and families around the world. More than one in 20 women will be diagnosed in their lifetime.1 Behind the numbers are mothers, sisters, daughters, friends — lives that deserve protection, dignity and hope.

We know what works. Early detection, timely diagnosis and quality treatment save lives. Yet, too many women are denied lifesaving interventions simply because of where they live or what they earn. In the wealthiest countries and communities, survival for breast cancer now exceeds 90%. Survival can be less than 40% for the poorest populations.2 This gap is not about biology; it is about inequity.

Equity in action WHO is working with governments and partners to turn awareness into action. It aims to reduce stigma, empower women and strengthen health systems to deliver. Countries are already showing results. In Egypt, the Presidential Initiative for Women’s Health has expanded early detection and improved referral pathways.

Today, the majority of breast cancers are diagnosed at Stage I or II. Morocco´s programme targets women aged 40–69 years and those with a family history of breast cancer, aiming for a majority coverage in biennial screenings. In Georgia, new policies are increasing access to life-saving medicines and financial protection for patients.

Global Breast Cancer Initiative To close this divide, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched the Global Breast Cancer Initiative. Its aim is simple: to improve breast cancer care so more women can survive.

Prevention, detection and better care The Global Breast Cancer Initiative is more than a framework — it is a call to action for equity. With cases projected to rise worldwide, it offers a roadmap for stronger prevention, earlier detection and better care. This month, let us honour those we have lost by re-committing to those who are or will face breast cancer.

Let us listen to survivors, support caregivers and put women at the centre of our strategies. Breast cancer is not a death sentence if we act together — with urgency, compassion and equity.

The Initiative focuses on three priorities: • Diagnose more women earlier • Accelerate the time to diagnosis and start care • Support women complete their treatment Our global goal — the ‘60-60-80’ targets — is that 60% of breast cancers are found early, receiving a confirmed diagnosis within 60 days and 80% completing treatment.

Achieving these goals could save 2.5 million lives by 2040.

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References: 1. Kim, J. et. al. 2025. Global patterns and trends in breast cancer incidence and mortality across 185 countries. Nat Med 31, 1154-1162.

2. World Health Organization. Breast cancer inequities. The Global Breast Cancer Initiative.

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Working towards a future free of secondary breast cancer It’s estimated that almost 60,000 people in the UK are living with secondary or metastatic breast cancer,1 where cancer cells have spread to other parts of the body.

Could science predict who will get breast cancer?

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gainst Breast Cancer funds vital research towards the prevention, earlier detection and better treatment of secondary spread, or metastatic breast cancer.2 There is currently no cure, although better treatments mean many live healthy lives long after their initial breast cancer diagnosis. But sadly, breast cancer claims the lives of over 11,500 people every year in the UK.3 Better screening and earlier detection methods are needed Breast mammogram screening is offered by the NHS to women between 50 and 70 and looks for early signs of breast cancer. However, about a third or 1 million eligible women do not take up the mammogram invite.4 Better awareness about the importance of mammogram screening is needed.

To support mammogram screening, current research is focused on improving imaging and blood tests for early detection.

Against Breast Cancer funding supported the development of a multiple early cancer testing at the University of Southampton.2 The test, called miONCO-Dx, can detect 12 of the most common cancers, including breast, at an early stage with high sensitivity. Further development of the test is ongoing at Xgenera with help from a NIHR (National Institute of Health and Care Research) grant.

Breast cancer prevention It’s estimated that 23% (about 13,000) of new breast cancer cases each year in the UK are preventable with better diet and lifestyle habits.3 Against Breast Cancer researchers are finding links between obesity and increased risk, while other studies show that physical exercise can reduce the risk of breast cancer.5 Improved therapies With breast cancer rates predicted to rise, research must continue — better treatments are needed to improve the outcomes and quality of life for patients. Charities and their supporters are working hard to fund cutting-edge research at leading UK Universities performed by worldleading scientists. Together, we can strive towards a future where no one loses their life to breast cancer.

References: 1. Palmieri C, et al. 2022. Estimated Prevalence of Metastatic Breast Cancer in England, 2016-2021. JAMA Netw Open. 2022;5(12):e2248069.

2. www.againstbreastcancer.org.uk 3. Cancer Research UK. 2025 Breast Cancer Statistics.

4. NHS England. 2024. New breast cancer screening figures prompt fresh uptake appeal.

5. Timms et.al. 2024. International pooled analysis of leisure-time physical activity and premenopausal breast cancer in women from 19 cohorts.

J.Clinical Oncology.

WRITTEN BY Dr Mark Powell Research Manager, Against Breast Cancer

Paid for by Against Breast Cancer Find out more at againstbreastcancer.org.uk

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For over two decades, a team of scientists have been quietly transforming our understanding of breast cancer.

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he Breast Cancer Now Generations Study, launched in 2004 and led by scientists at The Institute of Cancer Research, London, has followed more than 110,000 UK women, collecting half a million questionnaires and thousands of blood samples to uncover the complex factors behind the disease.

Now in its 21st year, the study has helped identify hundreds of genetic changes linked to breast cancer and revealed how lifestyle and hormonal factors contribute to risk. These insights are being used to develop tools that predict which women are most at risk, enabling earlier detection and prevention strategies.

The study also refined how family history is assessed, factoring in the number and age of female relatives to offer more accurate predictions.

breast cancer risk due to longer exposure to hormones.

Risks of smoking Smoking has been linked to a 14% higher risk of breast cancer, rising to 24% for those who started before age 17. For women with a family history, smoking increases risk by 35%. Conversely, physical activity – even light exercise – can modestly reduce risk, especially in younger women.

Understanding lifestyle factors Pregnancy lowers long-term breast cancer risk, though there’s a slight increase in aggressive cancer types shortly after childbirth. Menopausal age also plays a role, with earlier menopause linked to lower risk. Lifestyle factors like smoking and weight gain influence when menopause occurs. Finally, weight loss in postmenopausal women has been shown to reduce levels of hormones associated with breast cancer, suggesting that maintaining a healthy weight could be a key preventative measure.

To find out more about the Generations Study, visit thegenerationsstudy.co.uk/

Uncovering genetic risks of breast cancer One major breakthrough of the study is the development of a genetic risk score based on more than 300 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), tiny differences in DNA which can help explain why people respond differently to medicines or have different risks for certain diseases. While each SNP has a small effect, together, they can significantly increase someone’s risk – even in women without a family history of breast cancer.

Impact of family history The study also refined how family history is assessed, factoring in the number and age of female relatives to offer more accurate predictions. Other findings show that early menstruation, influenced by factors like childhood weight and maternal smoking, raises

WRITTEN BY Professor Amy Berrington Co-Principal Investigator, Generations Study, The Institute of Cancer Research, London

WRITTEN BY Professor Montserrat Garcia-Closas Co-Principal Investigator, Generations Study, The Institute of Cancer Research, London

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Interactive tool helps young people check their chests monthly

first time is completely normal; even people who already check monthly might need tips to help build their confidence.

Monthly checking can lead to early detection, and we know that early detection can save lives.

Breast cancer can affect anyone, yet there’s a misconception that it doesn’t affect young people.

Around 2,500 people under the age of 40 are diagnosed with breast cancer every year in the UK.1

C

WRITTEN BY Sophie Kirby Health and Services Manager, CoppaFeel!

oppaFeel! is a youth-focused breast cancer awareness charity, founded in 2009 by Kris Hallenga and her twin sister Maren, after Kris was diagnosed with incurable breast cancer at the age of 23. We exist to educate young people on the signs of breast cancer, encourage them to check their chest monthly and empower them to speak to their GP if they notice a change that’s unusual for them.

Why breast awareness matters In England, the majority of breast cancers are diagnosed through primary care referral after a person notices a symptom themselves.

When diagnosed at stage 1, most

women (almost 100%) will survive their cancer for five years or more after diagnosis.2 Because of this, breast awareness is crucial for early diagnosis.

Monthly checking can lead to early detection, and we know that early detection can save lives. That’s because when diagnosed early, breast cancer treatments are more effective, and survival rates are higher.

Helping you check with our ‘SelfCheckout’ tool The Self-Checkout is our online checking tool, which guides people through the process in three steps: look, feel and notice. Feeling uncertain while checking for the

The importance of regular breast checking and attending screening

A WRITTEN BY Manveet Basra Associate Director of Public Health, Inclusion and Awareness, Breast Cancer Now

Get to know your normal with TLC That’s why we want to remind women to prioritise regular breast checking and get to know their normal to help spot any new or unusual breast changes. Early detection is crucial as the sooner breast cancer is diagnosed, the more likely treatment will be successful.

READ MORE AT HEALTHAWARENESS.CO.UK

References: 1. Cancer Research UK. 2024.

2. NHS England. 2023. Cancer survival in England, cancers diagnosed 2016 to 2020, followed up to 2021.

knowing the signs and symptoms and how to check their breasts, leading to later diagnosis and poorer outcomes.

We’re committed to helping support women from all backgrounds by sharing important breast health and breast checking messages and ensuring they feel seen and heard throughout their breast cancer journey. It’s vital we keep the conversation going, raising awareness of the unique challenges faced by women from ethnic minority communities.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. With one woman diagnosed every nine minutes in the UK, it’s vital to highlight the importance of early detection, regular breast checking and recognising the signs and symptoms.

round two-thirds of breast cancers in England are found when a woman detects an unusual breast change and gets this checked by a GP. Yet, fewer than half (45%) of UK women surveyed (YouGov, September 2025) check their breasts regularly, and 11% have never checked their breasts at all.

Our interactive tool allows people to choose their preferred term to describe their body: boobs, pecs, chest, breasts — making the experience more personal and inclusive. Through engaging animations, the tool highlights the signs of breast cancer, including how they present on a range of skin tones.

It offers guidance on how to check and what steps to take if you notice a change that’s unusual for you.

To support you in making checking part of your monthly routine, you can also sign up for monthly text, email or calendar reminders.

It’s also vital that women know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer. While most breast changes (including lumps) are not cancer, it’s important to get any new or unusual change checked by your GP. Breast checking only takes a few minutes, and there’s no right way to do it, as long as it’s done regularly — it might be while getting dressed, showering or applying moisturiser.

We say it’s as simple as ‘TLC: Touch, Look, Check’.

The importance of breast screening Routine breast screening is another key tool for detecting breast cancer early, often before any signs or symptoms appear, which is why we encourage women to attend appointments when invited.

In the UK, women aged 50 or over will be invited for breast screening every three years until their 71st birthday. What people don’t always realise is that they can ask for a screening appointment after they are 71 by contacting their local screening unit.

Breast cancer in ethnic communities Breast health can still be considered a taboo topic in some ethnic minority communities. Cultural stigmas, myths and misconceptions can create barriers to women

We’re here for you At Breast Cancer Now, we want to remind anyone affected by breast cancer that we’re here to provide information and support in every way we can, all year round.

Visit The SelfCheckout at self-checkout. coppafeel.org, check your chest today and every month after that.

Paid for by Breast Cancer Now

If you’re worried about breast cancer or have a question about breast health, speak to Breast Cancer Now’s expert nurses. Call our free, confidential Helpline on 0808 800 6000 or visit breastcancernow. org/support-foryou/ask-ournurses

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Discover B-LITE® Scan the QR code to learn more about the science behind B-LITE®.

References 1. Govrin-Yehudain O., Calderon N., Govrin-Yehudain J. Five-Year Safety and Satisfaction With the Lightweight Breast Implant. Aesthetic Surgery Journal. 2022; 42(3):261-272.

2. Govrin-Yehudain O, Matanis Y, Govrin-Yehudain Reduced Pain and Accelerated Recovery Following Primary Breast Augmentation With Lightweight Breast Implants Aesthetic Surgery Journal. 2018; (10): 1092-1096 3. G&G Data on file: 97.1% of patients were reoperation-free at five years, with >94% patient satisfaction.

Pushing the boundaries in breast cancer research Each year, 55,000 UK women face breast cancer (CRUK Cancer Statistics). In the 1970s, survival was poor. Today, research and specialist care have transformed treatment and outcomes.

F

ive-year survival is now 85%, and surgery often maintains or enhances breast aesthetics. ‘Surgical de-escalation’ is the new buzzword. New wonder drugs destroy certain breast cancers before surgery in up to 70% of patients (Schmid et al., 2020). For most UK women, breast cancer is curable, whatever age they present.

WRITTEN BY Ms Sarah Downey Association of Breast Surgery President, Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon and Honorary Senior Lecturer

Early breast cancer diagnosis Mammographic breast screening improves cure rates by 20% and may reduce treatment aggression like mastectomy or chemotherapy (Marmot et al., 2013). Initially using basic X-ray, advances include digital and 3D imaging and MRI. In future, tests relying on protein biomarkers could be performed at home (Daily et al., 2022).

Oncoplastic surgery In 2002, UK breast and plastic surgeons together developed new techniques to safely remove cancer (onco) while preserving the breast appearance (plastic) (Clough et al., 2010, Rainsbury, 2003). The UK is a world leader in oncoplastic surgery, setting global standards for surgical training and practice (Wyld et al., 2019).

Targeted therapies: silver bullets New drugs that activate our own immunity against the cancer (immunotherapy) target specific cell receptors (eg.

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HER2) (Cameron et al., 2017) and target the machinery that repairs DNA (Tutt et al., 2021) or the cell growth cycle (Johnston et al., 2020) have transformed patient outcomes. For some aggressive breast cancers, combining immunotherapy and chemotherapy before surgery means there is no cancer left in nearly 70% of women afterwards (Schmid et al., 2020).

Multimodal therapy and surgical de-escalation Surgery now plays a collaborative role in treatment, removing the main lump and using radiotherapy and drug therapy to treat cancer cells elsewhere. Surgery can be less aggressive, improving outcomes, with mastectomy and removal of all armpit glands no longer mandated for most patients (Curigliano et al., 2017, Morrow, 2017).

Global variation Despite huge progress in treatment, many women worldwide still die needlessly from breast cancer (Elbasheer et al., 2025). Some countries cannot afford screening or complex therapies, and a lack of female empowerment and health education creates barriers to seeking and accessing care in time for a cure to be possible.

Despite progress made in breast cancer treatment, work must continue to ensure every woman has the best possible chance of a cure.

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