A new survey from the breast cancer charity, Breakthrough Breast Cancer, has found confusion amongst GPs in the UK when it comes to referring women with breast problems and that many do not proactively discuss breast awareness and screening with women over 50.
Ten per cent of GPs would refer a woman who has previously had confirmed breast cancer routinely, yet NICE guidelines state they should be referred urgently. A third (34%) of GPs would refer a female patient under 30 presenting with a lump and reasons for concern (e.g. family history) routinely. However, NICE guidelines also state they should be referred urgently.
Jeremy Hughes, chief executive of Breakthrough Breast Cancer, said: “We know some women referred routinely to a specialist go on to be diagnosed with breast cancer and for any woman, waiting to hear whether or not they have breast cancer is an extremely stressful and worrying time. This survey shows how essential a simple two week wait for all breast problem referrals is.
“While we welcome the Government commitment to implement this by December 2009, some areas of the country have already achieved a maximum two week wait and we urge the NHS to ensure all areas are supported to achieve this.”
Although UK survival rates for breast cancer have improved in recent years, they are still lower than the USA and many European countries. The risk of death in the first six months after diagnosis is highest in the UK compared to the rest of Europe. This indicates that delayed diagnosis and therefore advanced stage at diagnosis may be major factors in determining survival.
Jeremy Hughes added: “With survival rates for breast cancer among the lowest in Europe, there is a real need for education about the signs and symptoms of the disease and breast screening. 80% of breast cancers occur in those over 50 and most are detected by women themselves who notice unusual changes in their breasts and report these to their GP. GPs and Primary Care Trusts have a key role in helping women understand the benefits of breast awareness and breast screening.”
