Episode 68: Telling breast cancer to do one

Breast cancer screening saves around 1,300 lives every year in the UK by detecting breast cancer at an early stage, often before any symptoms appear. Yet many women still delay or miss their screening appointment, sometimes because they are worried about discomfort, believe they are healthy, or simply don't realise how important the invitation is.

In this episode of Taking Control of Cancer, host Steve Bland is joined by Deborah Fox, whose life changed after attending what she thought would be a routine breast screening appointment. She had no symptoms and felt completely well when she received her invitation for a mammogram. However, further tests following her screening led to a diagnosis of breast cancer.

Deborah shares her experience of receiving the news, the treatment that followed, and the emotional impact of living with cancer. She reflects on how a routine appointment may have saved her life and explains why she decided to document her journey by writing a book, Cancer Can Do One. Through her writing, Deborah hopes to offer reassurance, practical advice and hope to others who may be facing a similar diagnosis.

Joining the conversation is Mansi Tara and Yvonne Tapper from the North East London breast screening service, who explain how the NHS Breast Screening Programme works, who is eligible, what happens during a mammogram, and why screening remains one of the most effective ways of finding breast cancer early.

Together, Deborah, Yvonne and Mansi tackle some of the most common questions and misconceptions surrounding breast screening. Does the mammogram hurt? What happens if you're called back for further tests? Does being recalled always mean cancer? Why is it so important to attend even if you feel completely healthy?

The discussion also explores the importance of early diagnosis. When breast cancer is found early, treatment is often more successful and may be less extensive. Listeners will hear how screening can detect cancers long before they can be seen or felt, giving people the best possible chance of successful treatment.

Whether you've recently received your screening invitation, are supporting a loved one, or simply want to understand more about breast screening, this episode offers practical advice, expert information and a powerful reminder of why attending your appointment really matters.

You can buy Deborah's book here! https://www.amazon.co.uk/Cancer-Can-Go-Do-One-ebook/dp/B0HJ67H2LG/

Find out more about breast screening: https://www.nelcanceralliance.nhs.uk/breast-screening

Download and have a listen now:

Spotify: https://bit.ly/3VeQIFG

Apple: https://bit.ly/4iLLknl

Amazon: https://bit.ly/4iN4Srj

YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hAa3c0

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