Resources*

Breast Cancer: 

Breast cancer | Cancer Research UK

Information from the world’s largest cancer research organisation about breast cancer, symptoms, treatments, current trials and further resource links.

Family history of breast cancer and inherited genes | Cancer Research UK

Information on the kinds of breast cancer caused by inherited genes and who may be eligible for testing including based on family history.

Self checking:

Self-exam App — Know Your Lemons® for Early Detection

A global non-profit organisation for breast health education, they provide information on the visible signs of breast cancer and a breast self examination app which can provide reminders on when to check which can link in with a menstrual tracker.

SMS Reminders - CoppaFeel! (UK SMS only)

CoppaFeel! aim to get 18-24 year olds checking their chest.  They have information on how to check your chest along with signs and symptoms that something might be wrong.   They have an SMS reminder service (UK only) to remind you to check your chest.

Places:

Future Dreams | In-person and virtual breast cancer support

Based in London, a non medical environment where those touched by breast cancer can access and extensive range of online and in person services and support including movement classes, creative workshops and relaxation to provide emotional, practical and psychological support to people with breast cancer.

Maggie's | Everyone's home of cancer care (maggies.org)

UK Charity with in person support centres and online support for patients going through cancer, including benefits advice, psychological support & more

Living with and beyond:

Life After Cancer

Free support, workshops, tools and community to help you rebuild life after treatment whether you finished yesterday or ten years ago

Cancer Hair Care UK's leading hair loss support charity

UK charity offering free, expert advice and support on all aspects of hair loss, hair loss prevention (scalp cooling) and hair care, before, during and after cancer treatments

Working with Cancer

Best practice guides for employers, workshops & support for employees with senior professionals who are trainers & policy advisors from a wide range of industries and have experienced cancer.

Beauty Despite Cancer by Jennifer Young | Skincare for Cancer Patients

Skincare line and gifts designed to be safe and tackle some of the issues associated with cancer treatments, also a link to spas & therapy finder for patients living with cancer who may be refused access to regular spa or therapy treatments

Books:

Is it still ok to have cuddles? - Elke Thompson

Award winning illustrated autobiographical story for children aged 3+ explaining in age-appropriate language what breast cancer is, and what happens during chemotherapy, surgery and radiotherapy.

The Complete Guide to Breast Cancer (penguin.co.uk)

Written by retired breast cancer surgeon Liz O’Riordan and retired GP Professor Trish Greenhalgh both of whom have had breast cancer, this book combines their experiences as patients and doctors to provide a wealth of trusted and thorough information for both patients and their family.  An absolute must read for anyone navigating a breast cancer journey. 

International Support:

🇮🇪 Ireland

🇳🇱 Netherlands

🇧🇪 Belgium

  • Stichting tegen Kanker: Offers a bilingual (French/Dutch) free helpline ("Cancerinfo"), financial assistance, and psychological support services for patients and families.

  • Think Pink Belgium: Raising awareness, post-treatment care and support projects (such as "Smart8" and rehabilitation packages).

🇩🇰 Denmark

  • Kræftens Bekæmpelse: Nationwide counselling centres, local patient groups, and extensive medical documentation on breast cancer care.

  • Brystkræftforeningen: A patient-driven organization focusing on political advocacy, rights, rehabilitation, and local peer networks for women affected by breast cancer.

🇸🇪 Sweden

  • Cancerfonden: Educational resources, prevention advice, and a direct support hotline for patients and relatives.

  • Bröstcancerförbundet: Diagnosis-related research, rehabilitation support, and advocacy

🇳🇴 Norway

  • Kreftforeningen: direct legal, financial, and psychological advisory services through professional counsellors, alongside significant research funding.

  • Brystkreftforeningen: organization focusing on patient rights, specialized support systems, and local chapters throughout Norway.

🇫🇮 Finland

  • Syöpäsäätiö: Neuvontapalvelu (Cancer Counseling Service), where nurses and social workers provide free, confidential support.

  • Rintasyöpäyhdistys: Breast cancer advocacy, peer mentoring, and ensuring high-quality, specialized treatment pathways nationwide.

🇱🇹 Lithuania

  • Nacionalinis vėžio institutas: The primary specialized clinical and research center in Lithuania, providing advanced cancer diagnostics, treatment, and patient care guidance.

  • Pagalbos Onkologiniams Ligoniams Asociacija (POLA): The umbrella alliance of cancer patient organizations in Lithuania, offering the "POLA Card" (providing patients with discounts on medicines, psychological counseling, and cultural/wellness events) and strong advocacy support.

*This list of resources is here to help for informational purposes only.  Whilst I have tried to include reputable sources, the information presented may not be comprehensive, current, or applicable to every individual's situation.

DOI – I am a media volunteer with Cancer Research UK, however other than this, I do not endorse any specific organisation or website.  I  would always recommend users to consult with healthcare professionals for personalised medical advice and treatment options.

The resources listed may contain opinions or viewpoints that do not necessarily reflect my own.    When making any health-related decisions, I recommend you verify the credibility of the information and consider seeking multiple sources, and always discuss with your own healthcare team.