Liz Hurley is urging women to prioritize their health by regularly checking for breast cancer. She emphasized the importance of self-examination during an interview with Sky News’ Jacquie Beltrao. Hurley, a British actress and model, has been a dedicated global ambassador for Estee Lauder Companies’ Breast Cancer Campaign for three decades.
Women Must Prioritize Their Health
Many women often neglect their own health due to numerous daily responsibilities. Hurley remarked, “We’re doing stuff for kids, for husbands, for mothers, for in-laws. There’s so much that we have to do that we tend to come last.” This mindset can hinder proactive health measures, like self-examinations.
Breast Self-Examination: A Quick and Essential Routine
Hurley encourages women to view breast checks not as a selfish act, but as an essential part of maintaining their own health. She noted, “Checking one’s breasts takes two minutes, about the same length of time as brushing your teeth.” This simple practice can help ensure that women remain healthy enough to care for their loved ones.
Importance of Mammograms and Awareness
Statistics reveal a concerning trend. Over a third of women in the UK do not attend their initial mammogram appointment. Additionally, research from Sweden shows a similar trend among 500,000 women. In the UK, breast cancer claims the lives of more than 11,000 individuals each year, translating to 31 deaths daily. It stands as the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths, accounting for 7% of all cancer fatalities.
Changing Perceptions Around Breast Cancer
Hurley acknowledges that breast cancer was once perceived primarily as an ailment affecting older women. However, the rise in diagnoses among younger women exhibits a shift in this narrative. Increased awareness is prompting more younger women to get checked and understand the importance of familiarizing themselves with their bodies.
Encouragement for Young Women
During her conversation, Hurley addressed the importance of self-awareness among younger women. She stated that, in the absence of regular mammograms, it’s crucial for them to monitor their breasts for any changes. “When you’re younger, you do really have to be aware of your own breasts to be able to see if there’s a change,” she explained. This awareness can lead to early detection, which is vital for effective treatment.
In conclusion, Liz Hurley’s passionate advocacy seeks to inspire women to prioritize their health. By encouraging regular self-examinations and attendance at mammogram appointments, she hopes to lower the incidence of breast cancer and save lives. Women should remember that taking charge of their health is not indulgent, but imperative.
