Occupational Health Service

Women's Health

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. Approximately 2,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year and some 660 women die from the disease annually.

Becoming breast aware It is important that every woman is breast aware. This means knowing what is normal for you so that if there are any unusual changes, you will recognise them sooner. Get into the habit of looking at and feeling your breasts regularly. One way of looking is by using a mirror so that you can see the breasts from different angles. An easy way of feeling your breast is in the bath or shower.

Changes to look for

• A change in size or shape - one breast may become larger than the other
• Changes in the nipple - in direction or shape; pulled in or flattened; unusual discharge
• Changes on or around the nipple - rash, flaky or crusted skin
• Changes in the skin - dimpling, puckering or redness
• Swelling in the armpit or around the collarbone
• A lump, any size, or thickening in the breast
• Constant pain in one part of the breast or armpit

• Pain in your breasts is not usually a symptom of breast cancer. Many women find that their breasts feel lumpy and tender before a period, and some types of benign breast lumps may be painful.
• Nine out of ten breast lumps are benign and not cancerous. However, benign breast disease can be difficult to distinguish from cancer, so all breast lumps healthcare professional.
• Although the incidence of breast cancer in men is low, it can still occur. So men should be aware of any changes in their breasts and seek advice as soon as any changes are detected.
• Through early detection and improved treatment, more women than ever are beating breast cancer.

October is designated Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) internationally. OHS designates a week in October as women's cancer awareness week. As well as breast cancer, awareness of other female cancers is important.

Cervical Cancer Cervical cancer affects approximately 180 women a year and accounts for 2% of cancerrelated deaths in women.

Signs and symptoms
Early cervical cancer generally produces no signs or symptoms. It is when the disease has already developed and is progressing that some signs and symptoms may Women - be aware and know your risks for cancer occur. These include:

• Bleeding after intercourse, between menstruation or after menopause
• Watery, bloody vaginal discharge that may be heavy or foul smelling
• Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse

The procedure is simple, only takes a few minutes and is done at certain times during the monthly cycle. All women who are, or who have been sexually active should have the test done at least every 3 years, even when there are no symptoms present. The only means of detection is by examining cells from the cervix. This test forms part of ESB's Female Cancer Screening Programme, carried out in partnership with ESBOA and MPF.

Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer affects about 1 in 70 women per year. Symptoms can be vague and non-specific, making it difficult to diagnose. Some common warning signs include:

• Unexplained weight gain and a distended/bloated abdomen from fluid build-up
• Abdominal pain/dragging sensation in the lower abdomen
• Nausea/gastritis
• Changes in bowel function
• Infertility or changes in menstruation patterns

Uterine/Endometrial Cancer
Uterine cancer usually occurs after menopause, but it may also occur around the time that menopause begins. Abnormal vaginal bleeding is the most common symptom of uterine cancer. A woman should see her doctor if she has any of the following symptoms:

• Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge
• Difficult or painful urination
• Pain during intercourse
• Pain in the pelvic area

• Logging on to OHS intranet site
• Visiting the OHS information post in Head Office Foyer
• Contacting the Irish Cancer Society: www.cancer.ie / Cancer Helpline 1800 200 700
• Contacting your local EAP Officer or GP for further information.

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