First signs of breast cancer to spot as Amy Dowden shares health battle

Breast cancer is considered one the most common cancer types in the UK, targeting about one in every seven women during their lifetime.

Strictly Come Dancing star Amy Dowden, 32, took to social media on Wednesday 7 June to share she is more determined than ever to fight the serious condition.

The much-loved TV star is pictured sitting in a hospital bed with two thumbs up as she smiles at the camera.

Alongside the snap, Amy penned: “Step one to beating cancer! Rrrrrrready for this fight and more determined than ever to get back on the dance floor.”

This comes as Amy revealed she has grade 3 breast cancer last month.

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The dancer found a lump in her breast before heading off on her honeymoon with her husband Ben Jones.

According to Cancer Research UK, lumps are one of the first symptoms of breast cancer that most people notice.

While most breast lumps are not cancerous, it’s important to get them checked by a doctor, the charity urges.

If you’re unsure how to check your breasts, the NHS has produced a five-point plan including these tips:

• Know what’s normal for you
• Look at your breasts and feel them
• Know what changes to look for
• Report any changes to a GP without delay
• Attend routine screening if you’re aged 50 to 70.

Knowing your breasts in terms of size, shape and consistency is key so you can spot any new changes.

The health service also recommends feeling your boobs at different times each month because they can change during your menstrual cycle.

Once you understand your normal, Cancer Research UK advises looking out for the following signs:

• New lump or thickening in your breast or armpit
• Change in size, shape or feel of your breast
• Skin changes in the breast such as puckering, dimpling, a rash or redness of the skin
• Fluid leaking from the nipple in a woman who isn’t pregnant or breastfeeding
• Changes in the position of the nipple.

You should see your GP if you notice any new changes, the NHS adds.