Woman Attributes Survival to Early Mammogram Detection

Judith Loveridge, 61, a woman who received a breast cancer diagnosis without experiencing any symptoms, is urging other individuals to undergo their regular mammogram screenings. She stated she was “shocked” upon learning of her illness, emphasizing that early detection facilitated her recovery and led to her receiving the “all clear.” Data from University Hospitals of Derby and Burton (UHDB) indicates that approximately 30% of women eligible for breast screening appointments in South Derbyshire and South East Staffordshire are not attending them. Jackie Conway, UHDB’s lead breast care nurse, stressed that participation is “really important” for the prompt identification of any potential health concerns. Ms Conway further explained: “It’s the earliest possible stage that we could pick breast cancer up, when you can’t feel a lump or have any symptoms.” She added regarding the procedure: “Some people find it absolutely fine, some people say it feels uncomfortable. We don’t get many people who say it’s really painful, it’s more just the discomfort.” In 2021, Ms Loveridge received a diagnosis of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), which is an early manifestation of breast cancer. Her treatment regimen included a mastectomy followed by reconstructive surgery, in addition to chemotherapy. Reflecting on her experience, she stated: “I’d got two areas of this cancer in my breast, which meant that I had to have a mastectomy. It was quite a shock to the system.” Ms Loveridge emphasized the critical role of early screening, saying: “If I’d have not gone for that appointment, I genuinely might not be here now.” She continued: “If I had waited and waited until maybe I could feel or see something, then that cancer might have progressed further, and I might not be here.” She also noted the unexpected nature of the diagnosis: “To go along for a routine mammogram when you’ve got no signs of anything, you just don’t expect to be told anything other than ‘everything’s fine’.” Concluding her remarks, she highlighted the brevity and potential impact of the procedure: “The screening takes between five and 10 minutes, and that five to 10 minutes could save your life.” Cancer Research UK reports that breast cancer stands as the most prevalent cancer within the UK, constituting 15% of all new cancer diagnoses recorded between 2017 and 2019. Annually, approximately 55,500 women and 370 men in the UK receive a diagnosis. Furthermore, one in seven women in the UK will develop breast cancer at some point in their lives, with its incidence being higher among older women. Follow BBC Derby on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.