Actress and presenter Lisa Faulkner, 54, known for EastEnders and Holby City, revealed she underwent surgery two weeks ago after being diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer. She has since received the all-clear but still requires radiotherapy. Faulkner urged her 372,000 Instagram followers not to skip mammograms, stating, 'I am so grateful that I went for my mammogram... without that mammogram it wouldn’t have been picked up.' She thanked the NHS for the scan and early treatment.
Global and UK Breast Cancer Statistics
Research published in The Lancet Oncology projects global breast cancer cases will exceed 3.5 million by 2050. In the UK, one woman is diagnosed every ten minutes, according to Breast Cancer Now. Early diagnosis remains the most critical factor for successful treatment.
Lesser-Known Symptoms: Beyond the Lump
Dr Jiri Kubes, Radiation Oncologist and Medical Director at the Proton Therapy Center, emphasizes that breast cancer symptoms extend beyond lumps. 'While most women know to check for lumps or swelling, some abnormalities are not noticeable by sight,' he said. Visual changes are often spotted first, especially since over half of UK women do not check their breasts regularly, per Breast Cancer Now.
Dr Kubes advises looking for color changes, such as redness or inflammation, which may be harder to detect on darker skin. A rash or crusting around the nipple, resembling eczema, can also be a symptom. Additionally, changes in breast or nipple shape—like nipple inversion or size asymmetry—warrant a GP visit.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
If a GP suspects breast cancer, they may refer the patient to a breast clinic for further assessment. Treatment options include radiotherapy, chemotherapy, surgery, and hormone therapy. Dr Kubes notes that proton radiotherapy is especially beneficial for left-breast tumours due to its proximity to the heart, as it reduces the risk of radiation-induced heart disease.
Faulkner’s experience underscores the importance of regular screening. 'Don’t put them off, go,' she said, adding that her cancer was detected only through her mammogram. Dr Kubes concludes, 'The importance lies in regularly checking your breasts so if treatment is needed it can begin as soon as possible.'
