HI Anne,

A very warm welcome to our forum. This pandemic has certainly caused a number of changes in the handling of any possible cancer cases. It is scary enough when we are seen within the two week time frame and, get our test results about a week later.

You are so right, a lot of worry at this stage is caused by fear of the unknown. As protocols are gradually getting back to normal in some parts of the country, a number of people are getting notifications of appointments at short notice. I know that you are young, but sadly cancer is no respector of age, so you are as well to get this checked out. Try not to panic, as this will make no difference to the outcome.

When you arrive at the clinic you will be seen by a consultant who will take details of your medical history and then carry out an examination of your breasts. You are then likely to have an ultrasound and possibly a biopsy. You may also have a mammogram, although most people of your age have very dense breasts, so there is little point in doing this unltil you are older. After this you will have to wait for 1-2 weeks to get the results of these tests. Occasionally your consultant can tell you straight away whether or not there is any likelihood of cancer. If this is the case, you may be told this at your first appointment. However, no accurate diagnosis can be given until you get the results of your biopsy back. This will identify what type of cancer is present and, what grade it is.

You will find the staff at the clinic very pleasant and understanding. The scan is not at all sore.

I hope that your GP is correct and that there is nothing untoward present. Many ladies have naturally lumpy breasts, wich are perfectly normal. Of all the people referred to the breast clinic, only 1 person out of every 8 will be diagnosed with cancer, so your visit is as much to prove that you don't have anything suspect, as it is to detect cancer.

Do please let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx