Nicola’s breast cancer call

A PhD student is aiming to encourage more women to become breast cancer aware.

Nicola Smith, 23, of Thornaby, is working on a PhD study into breast cancer at the University.

Her aim is to promote the idea of breast self examination to all women and encourage them to adopt it as a daily part of their lives.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, with more than 44,000 women diagnosed each year. Of those, around 12,000 die from breast cancer.

Give yourself the best chance Nicola said: ‘It is really important that woman are made aware of self examination, as early detection of breast cancer can give the best possible chance of fighting the disease.

‘Self examination needs to become as much part of a women’s daily life as cleaning her teeth or putting on make-up. By regularly self examining, a woman will know what is normal for her and will be able to notice any changes.’

Nicola aims to link with breast cancer awareness activities taking place on Friday 31 October, when women are encouraged to wear pink – by calling on all women to also take time out of their day to examine their breasts using what is known as the five step programme.

She said: ‘Instead of simply wearing pink to promote the cause, perhaps women can be encouraged to examine their breasts on this day too.

‘It could be that many don’t bother due to embarrassment, or simply are not sure what to look for. Regular self examination is important to ensure that any changes are noticed by the woman.’

Drawing on family experience The aim of Nicola’s study, which is part of a three-year PhD, is to focus on women’s knowledge, beliefs and behaviour regarding self-examination.

She said: ‘My nanna Joyce Hughes died when she was 64 from breast cancer when I was little and my family has always supported cancer charities. I saw the study as a way of involving other women and encouraging them to become more aware.’

Nicola, who aims to eventually become a health psychologist working in health promotion, began studying at Teesside last year and has since completed a MA Health Psychology.

Women wanting to get involved in Nicola’s study into breast cancer and awareness of self-examination should email G7079216@tees.ac.uk.

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