Jessie J’s breast cancer battle

According to Cancer Research UK, more than 56,000 women a year are diagnosed with breast cancer. The majority of these cases are women aged 50 or over, but the disease can also affect those under 50, as 37-year-old popstar Jessie J sadly proved recently.

Back in June, Jessie revealed her diagnosis and underwent surgery to remove a breast. The news may have come as a shock to fans, but her openness and honesty about her cancer journey, which she has documented on her Instagram page, has no doubt raised a great deal of awareness about the condition and encouraged people everywhere, including those aged under 50, to be aware of changes to their breasts.

Signs and symptoms to look out for

• A lump or swelling in the breast, upper chest or armpit
• A change to the skin, such as puckering or dimpling
• A change in colour
• A change to the nipple, for example if it becomes inverted
• A rash or crusting around the nipple
• Unusual discharge from the nipple
• A change in size or shape of the breast

If you notice any of these changes, it is important to inform your GP immediately. Having one of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you have breast cancer but it always best to get it checked by a medical professional. Remember, the earlier breast cancer is caught, the higher the chance of treatment success.

Check yourself every month

Get into the habit of checking your breasts on a regular basis so you become familiar what is and isn’t normal for you. Ideally, check once a month after your period when your breasts are less likely to be tender.

Remember to check the whole breast area, including your upper chest and armpits. It’s as simple as TLC, Touch Look Check:

• Touch: Can you feel any lumps, bumps or puckering for example?
• Look: Stand in front of a mirror and look carefully for any changes.
• Check: If you notice any changes, make an appointment with a GP right away to carry out a thorough check.

Stay up to date with screenings

The NHS Breast Screening Programme invites women for mammograms every three years between the ages of 50 and 71. It is important to attend your screening as it provides an effective way of detecting breast cancer at an early stage, often before symptoms are noticeable. And remember, if you notice any unusual symptoms, don’t wait to be called up for your screening – contact your GP right away.

What now for Jessie J?

According to Jessie’s Instagram updates, results from tests following her mastectomy show no spread of the disease, which is fantastic news. She has also shared that the next step on her journey is reconstructive surgery.

If Jessie’s story has encouraged you to pay closer attention to your health and you’ve noticed something that doesn’t feel quite right, the team at YourGP are here to help. Book an appointment using our simple online booking system, email reception@your.gp, or call us on 0131 381 0322 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you.