Millie Mackintosh has revealed a shocking breast cancer scare after finding a lump on her left breast.
The 34-year-old former Made in Chelsea star made a GP appointment upon making the discovery.
Millie then had an ultrasound, which came back inconclusive.
This meant she needed to have a biopsy, which gave her major ‘health anxiety’ as she waited for the results.
Taking to social media on Thursday morning (May 23), the influencer used her post as an opportunity to remind other women to check their breasts.
‘Firstly, I want to say, I’m incredibly fortunate that my experience of finding a lump resulted in a clear diagnosis. For the 55,000 Women & Men diagnosed with Breast Cancer each year, their story & journeys are unbelievably heroic,’ she began in her lengthy caption.
Millie detailed to her 1.3million followers: ‘Last month I discovered a lump on the edge of my left breast. Although I tried to stop my mind from racing, the worry crept in very quickly. I knew this was not something to ignore so I booked in with my GP.
‘Under NHS guidelines, if your symptoms could indicate cancer, your GP will refer you on a two-week urgent referral, so a specialist can see you ASAP.
‘Upon examination with my GP and given my age, I was referred for an Ultrasound rather than a Mammogram. Unfortunately the results were inconclusive and a biopsy was needed.
‘At this point all rational thinking went out the window & I spiralled into my health anxiety. Even the statistics based on my family history (none), physical health (good) age & early detection, couldn’t quieten my mind.’
She added that, while waiting for her results, she tried to adjust her mindset to a more positive one by confiding in family and close friends.
However, she struggled to sleep at night due to being alone with her thoughts.
‘Results day finally arrived and the relief of a benign lump with no detection of dangerous cancerous cells, was an elation I had never felt before. It’s believed the lump was likely caused by hormonal changes and didn’t need removing,’ Millie continued.
She concluded: ‘With 1 in 20 lumps deemed potentially concerning, early detection is one of the most important steps, so please put a few minutes aside for your monthly 🍒MOT and don’t put it off!
‘We’re so lucky to be surrounded by those who tirelessly campaign for awareness 💗 There are so many incredible charities, but I felt an instant connection to @coppafeel whose mission is to ensure early accurate detection in young people, by focusing on educating & empowering women to know and fight for their bodies.’
Millie added a link in her bio to direct people to the charity’s resources.
Following her candid post, Millie was inundated with supportive comments, with other women sharing their stories.
Breast cancer symptoms
The first symptom of breast cancer that most women notice is a lump or an area of thickened tissue in their breast.
You should see a GP if you notice any of the following:
- a new lump or area of thickened tissue in either breast that was not there before
- a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
- a discharge of fluid from either of your nipples
- a lump or swelling in either of your armpits
- a change in the look or feel of your skin, such as puckering or dimpling, a rash or redness
- a rash (like eczema), crusting, scaly or itchy skin or redness on or around your nipple
- a change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast
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