NHS & WHO sourced
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about breast cancer and our work. All clinical information is sourced from NHS and WHO guidelines.
About breast cancer
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is a disease in which cells in the breast grow out of control. It can develop in both women and men, though it is far more common in women. There are several types — including invasive ductal carcinoma, lobular carcinoma, and triple-negative breast cancer — each with different characteristics, treatments and outcomes.
What are the warning signs of breast cancer?
Key signs include: a new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit; a change in size, shape or feel of the breast; skin changes such as dimpling, puckering or redness; a change in nipple position; nipple discharge (especially if bloodstained); or persistent unexplained pain in one area. If you notice any of these, see your GP promptly — you will not be wasting their time.
How is breast cancer diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a triple assessment: a clinical examination by a specialist, imaging (mammogram and/or ultrasound), and a biopsy to confirm whether cells are cancerous. On the NHS, anyone referred with an urgent breast concern should be seen at a breast clinic within two weeks.
What are the stages of breast cancer?
Breast cancer is staged from 0 (very early, non-invasive) to IV (advanced, spread to distant organs). Stage I and II are early-stage cancers with the best treatment outcomes — five-year survival exceeds 90%. Stage III and IV are more advanced. Stage at diagnosis is the single biggest driver of survival outcomes.
Can breast cancer be prevented?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent breast cancer, but certain lifestyle factors are associated with reduced risk: maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, exercising regularly, and breastfeeding if possible. Some women with known high genetic risk (such as BRCA mutations) are offered risk-reducing surgery or medication. The most important thing every woman can do is stay breast-aware and attend NHS screening when invited.
What is the NHS breast screening programme?
The NHS invites women aged 50–71 for a mammogram (breast X-ray) every three years as part of the national screening programme. Screening can detect cancers before they cause symptoms, when treatment is most effective. Women under 50 or with a family history may be eligible for earlier or more frequent screening — speak to your GP.
Treatment & care
How is breast cancer treated?
Treatment depends on the type, stage and hormone receptor status of the cancer. Options include surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy), chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy (such as tamoxifen), targeted therapy (such as Herceptin for HER2-positive cancers), and immunotherapy. Most women receive a combination. An MDT (multidisciplinary team) will recommend a personalised treatment plan.
What is hormone therapy for breast cancer?
Around 80% of breast cancers are hormone-receptor positive (ER+), meaning oestrogen drives their growth. Hormone therapy — such as tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors — blocks this fuel. It is taken as a daily tablet for 5–10 years and reduces recurrence risk by up to 50%. It is one of the most effective cancer treatments ever developed.
What is life like after breast cancer treatment?
Most people complete treatment and go on to live full, healthy lives. Recovery takes time — fatigue, emotional adjustment and physical side effects are all normal. Follow-up appointments, annual mammograms and ongoing hormone therapy are part of the post-treatment pathway. Support from breast care nurses, counsellors and peer groups makes a significant difference.
Can breast cancer come back after treatment?
Yes. Recurrence is possible, which is why follow-up care and hormone therapy (where appropriate) continue for years after treatment ends. Local recurrence (in the same breast or chest wall) and distant recurrence (in other organs — also called secondary or metastatic breast cancer) are both monitored. Reporting any new symptoms to your oncology team promptly is important.
About us & donating
What is Breast Cancer Awareness?
Breast Cancer Awareness is a fundraising and awareness campaign operated by World Aid Network, a London-based international development organisation. We fund free breast cancer screening, community education and treatment access in low-income communities worldwide. All clinical content is sourced from NHS and WHO guidelines.
Is Breast Cancer Awareness a registered charity?
Breast Cancer Awareness is a campaign of World Aid Network. World Aid Network is registered with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) as a data controller (registration number ZC156579). Our Charity Commission registration is currently in progress.
Can I donate now?
We are finalising our charity registration before accepting donations to ensure full transparency and regulatory compliance. Leave your email on our donate page to be the first to know when we open. In the meantime, you can help by sharing our awareness content and supporting local Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities.
Where will my donation go?
All funds raised through the Breast Cancer Awareness campaign will be used to fund community screening programmes, education sessions and treatment access support in low-income communities where breast cancer survival rates are lowest. We will publish full programme reporting once donations open.
How can I fundraise for Breast Cancer Awareness?
We welcome individual fundraising, workplace fundraising, and community events. Contact us at info@worldaidnetwork.org to discuss how to set up a fundraiser in support of the campaign.
Clinical concerns
I have found a lump — what should I do?
See your GP as soon as possible — ideally the same day or the next. Most lumps in women of all ages are benign (non-cancerous), but any new, unexplained lump should be checked promptly. You will not be wasting your GP's time. If your GP has a concern, you will be referred to a specialist breast clinic within two weeks under the NHS two-week wait pathway.
Can men get breast cancer?
Yes. Breast cancer in men is uncommon — around 400 cases are diagnosed in the UK each year, compared to around 56,000 in women — but it does occur. The most common symptom is a painless lump under the nipple or around the areola. Any change in the chest area should be checked by a GP.
Are you a medical service?
No. Breast Cancer Awareness is a fundraising and awareness campaign. We do not provide clinical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content on this website is sourced from NHS and WHO guidelines and is intended for general information only. If you have a health concern, contact your GP or call NHS 111.
Didn’t find your answer?
Browse our in-depth breast cancer guides, or contact us directly. If you have a medical concern, please contact your GP or call NHS 111 — we are not a clinical service.