Breast cancer rates rise among older women

The lifetime risk of getting breast cancer has risen from one woman in nine to one in eight, research shows.

The figures, published to coincide with World Cancer Day today, show the biggest rise in breast cancer rates is among women aged 50-69, while for 25-49 year old women, rated dropped by 0.5%.

Cancer Research UK suggests having lifestyle trends, such as women having children later in life, is partly responsible for the rise.

Sara Hiom, Cancer Research UK’s director of health information, said: “Women cannot change their genes but small changes in everyday habits can help to reduce cancer risk. Cutting back on alcohol by keeping within government recommended limits of no more than 14 units a week (a small drink a day) helps. Taking more exercise and eating a diet high in fibre but low in saturated fat can help maintain a healthy weight – which in turn reduces breast cancer risk.

“Women should also discuss hormone replacement therapy with their doctor as long-term use can raise breast cancer risk.

“Mammograms will pick up breast cancers early on before they can be felt as a lump or spotted through other visible changes and we know that the earlier a cancer is detected the more successful treatment is likely to be so women can benefit by taking up invitations to breast screening.”