A campaign by Prevent Breast Cancer and BooBee is encouraging women to check themselves for the symptoms of breast cancer while on holiday.
The Check In and Check Yourself campaign will feature on digital advertising screens around Manchester Airport until 7th September.
Breast cancer is the most diagnosed form of cancer among women in the UK, with almost 60,000 new cases each year. Recent polling by Breast Cancer Now and YouGov found that nearly half (45%) of UK women failed to check their breasts regularly, and one in 10 had never checked themselves at all, with hectic lifestyles and a lack of habit frequently cited as primary barriers.
Campaigners say that this means that many women only notice changes when they escape their daily routine and stress for a well-earned holiday – which is why the Check In and Check Yourself campaign is being mounted.
One of the women supporting the campaign is 62-year-old Kath Pryer, from Prestbury, who was soaking up some winter sunshine in the Caribbean in January 2023 when she noticed some soreness and discomfort in her right breast while lying on her front.
She explained: “I don’t lie on my front very often, so initially I didn’t think anything of it, but a few days later I could feel it again. After the third time, I started to get more concerned, to the point where I was lying awake in bed one night – on my back this time – and that’s when I felt a lump.
“When I arrived back in the UK I went for a scan and was diagnosed with breast cancer. I started a course of IV chemotherapy, followed by a lumpectomy and five sessions of radiotherapy. Later that same year, I got the all-clear.”
She said it was her change of environment that led to her realising something was wrong.
She added: “I don’t think I would have found it otherwise. What I’d say to women travelling on their holidays this summer is: check thoroughly, check regularly and if you do find something you’re not happy with, don’t put it off – see somebody.”
Margo Cornish, patron of the BooBee Campaign and Prevent Breast Cancer, said: “Going on holiday can actually be a great opportunity for women to take care of their bodies and potentially catch any signs of breast cancer early.
“The relaxed atmosphere and lack of distractions while on holiday makes it easier to notice any changes in your breasts, like lumps or differences in appearance.
“Even simple things like putting on sunscreen or trying out a new sunbed position could help you spot any symptoms – so this campaign is really about ensuring women are aware of what to look for, and we’re very grateful for Manchester Airport’s support.
“The digital screen ads in the terminals will offer a timely reminder as people prepare to jet off on their summer breaks.”
As part of the awareness campaign, the BooBee bus was parked outside Terminal Two yesterday (Wednesday) so passengers could drop in to find out more about signs and symptoms, how to check themselves, the importance of establishing a routine and what to do if they have any concerns.
Nikki Barraclough, chief executive of Prevent Breast Cancer, said: “Breast cancer is the most common female cancer in the UK, affecting almost 60,000 women every year. Early diagnosis is key, which is why it’s so important that women take time to check their breasts regularly and see a doctor straight away if they notice anything different. Checking your breasts each month might just save your life.”
For more information on the campaign visit boobee.co.uk/check
