Most cases of breast cancer are detected by women who report unusual breast changes to their GP. This highlights the importance of being breast aware.

Breast awareness means becoming familiar with what your breasts look and feel like normally, whatever your age. Understand how your breasts may change at different times during the month (when you're having your period for example) and as you get older, so you can be aware of any unusual changes and check them out with your doctor as soon as possible. If cancer is diagnosed, prompt treatment offers the best chance of a successful outcome.

Understand how your breasts may change at different times during the month ...

There is no need to follow a fancy routine for examining your breasts, just be familiar with how they look and feel so that you notice changes. You can do this by looking and feeling in any way that makes you feel comfortable - in the bath or shower, when dressing, standing or lying down. If you find anything unusual or are worried, you should talk to your GP.

Changes to look out for include:

• One breast might become larger or lower
• Skin texture - such as puckering or dimpling of the skin
• A nipple might become inverted or changes shape or position
• Discharge from one or both nipples (blood-stained liquid)
• Rash or crusting of the nipple or surrounding area
• Lump in the breast or armpit
• Swelling under the armpit or around the collarbone
• Lumpy area or unusual thickening of breast tissue that doesn't go away after your period
• Pain in part of the breast or armpit that is unrelated to periods

Remember that nine out of ten breast lumps are not cancerous. Don't let fear of the unknown keep you from visiting the doctor, the earlier breast cancer is diagnosed and treated the better the chance of a successful outcome.

If you are aged 50 and over remember to attend routine breast screening sessions offered by the NHS.