Life after breast cancer

BREAST cancer survival rates in Ireland are at their highest — it’s the second most common cancer, affecting more than 2,700 women a year.

Life after breast cancer is not problem-free. Women may have had lumpectomies or mastectomies, also weight gain and hair loss are associated with some treatments, and early menopause can be triggered. These can affect self-confidence and body image.

A study by the British charity, Breast Cancer Care, found that the majority (88%) of people who’ve had breast cancer say the disease, and its subsequent treatment, have negatively impacted how they feel about their body, with 68% saying it’s affected their sexual and intimate relationships, too.