Marks & Spencer is putting new signs into store fitting rooms across the UK after one of its workers was diagnosed with breast cancer. Lucy Dawson, 24, who works at an M&S in Tamworth, pushed for the change after coming up with the idea at a bra fitting, following chemotherapy treatment.
She realised the fitting rooms were an ideal place to share guidance on breast cancer symptoms - yet there weren't any signs about what to look for displayed anywhere. Lucy said: "So many people only associate breast cancer with a lump, when in fact there are so many other symptoms.
"I don’t think I would know all the symptoms of breast cancer if I hadn’t gone through it myself." Now, new signage will be rolled out to every cubicle in the women’s and lingerie fitting rooms at 110 stores after Lucy pitched the idea directly to M&S chief executive Stuart Machin, reported Birmingham Live.
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The food team manager added: "Being diagnosed at such a young age really opened my eyes as I don’t think many young people realise it can impact them. I’m so incredibly proud that the idea is now being rolled out nationwide because it is such a simple idea that has the potential to save lives."
Breast Cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, with around 55,000 people diagnosed every year. It makes up 15 per cent of all cancer cases in females and males combined - and the sooner it is diagnosed, the more likely treatment is to be successful.
It's hoped the signs, which are also being put in employee changing rooms, will increase early detection and encourage more people to regularly check their breasts. The signs will include the Breast Cancer Now logo and a QR code which takes people who scan it to the charity's website to find out more.
M&S has raised more than £33 million for its long-term charity partner Breast Cancer Now over the last 20 years through post-surgery bras, swimwear and other sales and through 900,000 customers choosing it as their chosen Sparks charity. The roll-out of the signs coincides with the new M&S campaign, 'Love your boobs. It starts with a bra fit', which celebrates breasts of all shapes, sizes and life stages.
Breast Cancer Now chief executive Baroness Delyth Morgan said: "Currently one in seven women in the UK will receive the devastating news they have breast cancer. With this set to increase by one in six by 2050, it’s more crucial than ever that people know the signs and symptoms of the disease.
"We know that the sooner breast cancer is diagnosed, the better the chances of treatment being successful. By arming millions of people across the UK with this health information, we’ll help ensure more people who have breast cancer get diagnosed sooner, so they have a better chance of successful treatment."
Symptoms of breast cancer:
According to the NHS, breast cancer can have several symptoms, but the first noticeable sign is usually a lump or area of thickened tissue. Most breast lumps are not cancerous - but it's always best to have them checked by a doctor.
You should also see a GP if you have any of these symptoms:
- a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
- discharge from either of your nipples, which may be streaked with blood
- a lump or swelling in either of your armpits
- dimpling on the skin of your breasts
- a rash on or around your nipple
- a change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast
Breast pain is not usually a symptom of breast cancer. You can find out more about the breast cancer on the NHS website.
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