Breast Cancer Awareness Month

The good news is more women are surviving breast cancer every year. However virtually all deaths from breast cancer are due its spread to other parts of the body. Therefore our research at Against Breast Cancer is dedicated to improving detection and survival. Our scientists study the whole woman - her tumour, her response to it and her environment to understand more about breast cancer recurrence.

We have built one of the largest collections of breast cancer patient samples in the UK to look for vital information that could identify the spread of the disease and our Diet & Lifestyle study of over 3,000 breast cancer patients in 56 hospitals across the UK will help establish how diet, lifestyle and complementary treatments affect the spread of breast cancer.

World-class, innovative research is expensive, but we already know that our interim results due towards the end of 2012 will be of worldwide interest that's why we're committed to supporting this exciting research programme. However we receive no government funding and remain wholly dependent on public generosity to continue this research.

So this October we've listed a few ideas about how you can join in;

Be breast aware

Until the threat of breast cancer is removed then self-examination remains the key to early detection.

Breast cancers produce few warning signs and hardly ever cause pain. Beyond a vague discomfort, often the first thing people notice is an abnormal lump in their breast. There are other possible signs: know them, look for them - and don't take chances. Download our 'Being Breast Aware' podcasts at the foot of this page for more information.

Being 'breast aware' means getting to know your breasts; how they look and what they normally feel like. There are five easy-to-remember steps.

1. Know what is normal for you.
2. Know the changes to look and feel for.
3. Look and feel.
4. Report any changes to your GP without delay.
5. Attend regular breast screenings when invited.

Hold your own event

Lots of our supporters have fun and raise funds by holding their own 'In the Pink' events at their home, local town or workplace. These events can be year-round and take many forms - from coffee mornings, dress down at work days to cake sales.

Take part in an organised event

Challenge yourself to achieve something you've always wanted to do. We are involved with most of the high profile events taking place in the UK and overseas. We can help you get involved with whatever activity suits you best, from a local sponsored walk to climbing a mountain.

Recycle

We recycle more than just old mobile phones! Everything from printer cartridges to old bras can be turned into funds to support our research!

Volunteer

Getting involved is about spreading awareness as well as raising funds. We simply couldn't function without volunteers and the skills & experience they bring.

Go shopping

Try visiting our online shop. You'll find everything from T-shirts to jewellery, and our ever popular range Christmas cards.

Become a regular giver

Becoming a regular giver is one of the best ways you can support us. Regular gifts provide us with a regular income stream which allows us to plan ahead with confidence.