Release date: 20 December 2024
A recent debate at a meeting of West Sussex County Council led to unanimous support for a proposal that the council should increase public awareness of breast cancer, including through the promotion of self-examination and screening.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, with 1 in 7 women in the UK developing breast cancer during their lifetime.
The debate at Full Council on Friday 13 December heard how breast cancer is a significant issue in the county and that, while screening is above the national average, the rate of early deaths is worse.
The motion states: ‘All people should be supported to ensure breast cancer is detected as early as possible to enable timely diagnosis and treatment. This means ensuring people are aware of how to notice changes in their breasts and that people who are eligible have information to make an informed choice about taking up the offer of breast cancer screening. People faced with a diagnosis of breast cancer should receive the care, support, and dignity they deserve.’
While breast screening services are commissioned by NHS England, the county council’s Director of Public Health and her team, provide a local leadership role in health protection, with a focus on reducing health inequalities and improving access for underserved groups. This includes working closely with NHS partners to increase uptake in the NHS Breast Screening Programme for those eligible.
Councillors unanimously agreed to use the council’s communications channels to help raise awareness of breast cancer, including self-examination and to encourage informed uptake of breast cancer screening, and for the Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, Councillor Bob Lanzer, to make representations to NHS England to ensure access to diagnosis, treatment and support pathways is timely, high quality and personalised.
Cllr Lanzer said: “I am delighted to see cross-party support for the motion and was happy to back it. We will be taking forward the actions to raise awareness and engage with NHS England. Increasing breast awareness through self-examination and breast screening, are crucial in helping people across West Sussex to stay alert to breast cancer, identifying it as early as possible and getting access to the support they need. This work is part of our ongoing commitment to helping people live full and healthy lives and fulfil their potential in line with the priorities in Our Council Plan.”
The notice of motion on breast cancer awareness was proposed by Councillor Henna Chowdhury. Cllr Chowdhury said: “Thank you to my fellow councillors for supporting this important motion. The motion is about empowering individuals and ensuring everyone in West Sussex has access to the right information and support. Together, we can create a community where no-one faces breast cancer alone.”
Individuals are encouraged to check their breasts/chest by regular self-examination (around once a month), to get to know what is normal for them, and to take up the offer of breast cancer screening when invited.
The NHS provides a ‘How to check your breast or chest guide’, which includes a helpful video showing how to do so.
