A new campaign is encouraging women aged 70 plus to be aware of the signs of breast cancer and visit their GP if they notice any changes to their breasts. The campaign is part of Public Health England’s ‘Be Clear on Cancer’ initiative and is being supported by TV personalities Barbara Windsor, Gloria Hunniford and Miriam Margolyes, who are in their 70s.

One in three breast cancer cases occur in women over 70 and survival rates are lower in this age group. Despite this, a survey found that two thirds of women aged 70 and over mistakenly believe that women of all ages are equally at risk. Barbara Windsor said: “You get to a certain age and think you’re too old for some things, but breast cancer isn’t one of them.” The NHS is also piloting a campaign in northwest England until 16 March, raising awareness of the symptoms of ovarian cancer among women aged 50 plus.

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society is encouraging pharmacies to get behind both campaigns and supporting materials are available to download from: www.rpharms.com