Sarah Ferguson recovering from surgery after breast cancer diagnosis
Listeners of the Duchess of York's podcast have urged to attend breast cancer screenings, following her own diagnosis. ITV News Correspondent Rachel Younger reports
Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, is recovering from surgery after she was diagnosed with breast cancer, her spokesman said.
It is understood the 63-year-old was treated at the private King Edward VII’s Hospital in London which has treated members of the royal family for decades.
The spokesman said: “Sarah, Duchess of York was recently diagnosed with an early form of breast cancer detected at a routine mammogram screening.
“She was advised she needed to undergo surgery which has taken place successfully.
“The duchess is receiving the best medical care and her doctors have told her that the prognosis is good. She is now recuperating with her family.
“The duchess wants to express her immense gratitude to all the medical staff who have supported her in recent days.
“She is also hugely thankful to the staff involved in the mammogram which identified her illness, which was otherwise symptom-free, and believes her experience underlines the importance of regular screening.”
The duchess recorded an episode of her new podcast, called Tea Talk, the day before she went into hospital. The episode, in which she talks about her diagnosis, will be broadcast on Monday.
Symptoms to look out for
Breast cancer has many symptoms, but usually the first noticeable symptom is a lump or area of thickened breast tissue, according to the NHS.
Most breast lumps are benign, but it is always best to have them checked by a doctor.
You should also see a GP if you notice any of these symptoms:
a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts;
discharge from either of your nipples - which may be streaked with blood;
a lump or swelling in either of your armpits;
dimpling on the skin of your breasts;
a rash on or around your nipple;
a change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast.
Breast pain is not usually a symptom of breast cancer.
Find out more about the symptoms of breast cancer through the NHS.
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