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Breast awareness Q&As

Published by Bupa's health information team, July 2009.

Answers to questions about breast awareness

This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.

 

Can changing my diet reduce my risk of getting breast cancer?

Much more research needs to be done before we can fully understand how your diet affects your risk of getting breast cancer. But we know that eating a healthy balanced diet, and living a healthy lifestyle, can help to reduce your risk of many diseases including heart disease, diabetes and some other types of cancer.

Explanation

Living a healthy lifestyle will help you to stay in good health and reduce your risk of some diseases, including heart disease and diabetes.

It's important that you eat a healthy balanced diet, including plenty of fruit and vegetables. Try to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables every day. Regular exercise will also help you to stay healthy.

If you smoke, the most important thing you can do for your health is to quit. If you're having trouble giving up, contact your GP for advice.

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I've heard that men can get breast cancer too. Is this true?

Yes, men can get breast cancer too, but it's very rare. Around 300 men are affected by breast cancer each year in the UK.

Explanation

It's very rare for men to get breast cancer. Because of this, not everyone is aware that it can affect men too. Breast cancer can occur in men of any age.

The most common symptom of breast cancer in men is a lump in their breast tissue. Most of the breast tissue in men is found behind their nipple. If you find a lump in this area, contact your GP.

Most lumps aren't breast cancer. They are usually caused by a condition called gynaecomastia, which means 'female breast'. Gynaecomastia causes an increase in breast tissue in men, usually in the form of a lump under your nipple. Gynaecomastia can usually be treated with medicines.

Male breast cancer is usually treated with an operation called a mastectomy. This means that all of your breast tissue, your nipple and your lymph nodes will be removed.

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I'm breastfeeding and have noticed some changes in my breasts. Should I be worried?

If you're breastfeeding and notice some unusual changes in your breasts, contact your GP. It's common for your breasts to feel lumpy while you're breastfeeding, but it's best to get anything unusual checked, just to be on the safe side.

Explanation

Examine your breasts for any unusual changes while you're breastfeeding, as you would normally. It's common to get lumpy breasts while you're breastfeeding. But if you're concerned, or notice any unusual changes in you breasts, contact your GP.

You can get breast cancer during or after breastfeeding, so it's important that you continue to be aware of any changes in your breasts.

Further information

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This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.

Publication date: July 2009

Breast awareness factsheet

 

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