'shocking statistics': poll finds majority of breast cancer survivors felt unprepared for diagnosis

a majority of survivors felt unprepared for a breast cancer diagnosis, according to a new poll released by breast cancer canada (formerly the breast cancer society of canada).

results of the poll were shared yesterday to announce a new era for the breast cancer society of canada and its k no w more campaign. created around the message that knowing more about breast cancer will mean no more breast cancer, the campaign aims to increase awareness of the latest research on breast cancer.

an estimated one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, and one in 34 women are expected to die from the illness, according to the canadian cancer society . breast cancer makes up roughly 25 per cent of the totally cancer diagnoses every year.

should we self-screen for breast cancer?

when it comes to self-screening for breast cancer, the canadian cancer society recommends the best method of detection is to be aware of what’s normal for your own breasts — from under the armpit all the way up to the collarbone — and discuss any changes to your doctor. symptoms of breast cancer include a change in size or shape of the breast, dimpling on the breast itself, discharge from the nipples, a rash around the nipples or swelling in the armpits.

latest research casts doubt on canadian screening guidelines

the results of the breast cancer canada poll comes on the heels of a university of ottawa study which found that not screening women for breast cancer in their 40s may lead to higher rates of advanced breast cancer diagnoses in their 40s and 50s. no doubt that further education on screening for breast cancer and where to request it can play a major role in the health of canadians. (this study was not part of the breast cancer canada survey.)

emma jones is a multimedia editor with healthing. you can reach her at emjones@postmedia.com or on instagram and twitter @jonesyjourn .