ERITH & THAMESMEAD: MP backs call for equal treatment for breast cancer patients (From This Is Local London)

ERITH & THAMESMEAD: MP backs call for equal treatment for breast cancer patients

3:13pm Thursday 11th March 2010 in

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A CAMPAIGN has been launched to reduce the inequalities faced by older women diagnosed with breast cancer.

Erith and Thamesmead MP John Austin has given his support to Breakthrough Breast Cancer’s campaign Every Chance.

Research funded by the charity shows women aged over 80, are 40 times less likely to be offered surgery for their breast cancer.

If they are, they are significantly less likely to be offered breast conserving surgery and are less likely than younger women to receive even standard treatments such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Mr Austin said ensuring all breast cancer patients in his constituency received fair treatment whatever their age, was a “hugely important issue”.

He added: “Anyone who feels they did not receive full access to treatment because of their age should get in touch with me and I will take the matter up with the local health authority.”