16/10/2026
🎗️ OCTOBER IS BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH 🎗️
As a community page, we want to use our platform to shine a light on important issues that affect individuals, families and communities. Throughout October, we’ll be highlighting different causes, sharing useful information and signposting people to support available across our community. 💗
This month, we're raising awareness of breast cancer — the importance of knowing your body, recognising changes and knowing where to turn for support.
🎗️ DID YOU KNOW?
• In Scotland, 5,208 new cases of breast cancer were recorded in 2024, making it the most common cancer affecting women in Scotland.
• Around 1 in 7 women in the UK will develop breast cancer during their lifetime.
• Breast cancer can affect people of different ages and can also affect men.
Knowing what is normal for your body and recognising changes early is important. 💗
🎗️ KNOW YOUR BREASTS
We've attached an image showing how to check your breasts. Try to get into the habit of checking regularly and becoming familiar with what is normal for you.
Look out for:
• A new lump or swelling in your breast, chest or armpit.
• Changes in the size or shape of your breast.
• Changes to the skin, such as dimpling or puckering.
• Changes to your ni**le, including a rash, inversion or unusual discharge.
• Persistent pain in your breast or armpit.
If you notice anything unusual, contact your GP as soon as possible. Most breast changes are not cancer, but it's important to get them checked. You don't need to wait until your next breast screening appointment if you have concerns.
🎗️ SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE
Whether you have received a diagnosis, are worried about a change, or are supporting a loved one, you don't have to face things alone.
💗 Breast Cancer Now
Free, confidential support and information from specialist breast care nurses, alongside support services for people affected by breast cancer.
📞 Helpline: 0808 800 6000
🌐 breastcancernow.org
💗 The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre and Beatson Cancer Charity
The Beatson provides specialist cancer care, while Beatson Cancer Charity supports patients and families through its services and initiatives. If you or a loved one is receiving care at the Beatson, ask your treatment team about the support available.
🌐 beatsoncancercharity.org
💗 Your GP
Your GP is an important first point of contact if you notice a change in your breasts or have concerns about your breast health. They can assess your symptoms and arrange further investigation if needed.
💗 Macmillan Cancer Support
Offers practical, emotional and financial guidance for people affected by cancer and their families.
📞 Helpline: 0808 808 00 00
🌐 macmillan.org.uk
💗 Ardgowan Hospice
Ardgowan Hospice provides specialist palliative care and support for people living with life-limiting illnesses, as well as support for families and loved ones. If you or someone close to you is affected by cancer, you can contact the hospice to find out more about the services and support available.
🌐 ardgowanhospice.org.uk
💗 LET'S LOOK OUT FOR ONE ANOTHER
Breast cancer can affect more than the person receiving a diagnosis. It can impact partners, children, families, friends and the wider community.
By sharing information, encouraging conversations and helping people access support, we can all play a part in raising awareness.
Please share this post to help spread the message, and remember to check in with yourself and those around you. 💗
