Asda adds breast cancer advice to all own-brand sanitary products

It will become the first producer of feminine hygiene products to carry a voluntary women’s health message on its packaging

(Getty/iStock)

Asda has announced that it will be adding an important health warning to all own-brand sanitary products from July.

Checking your breasts and being aware of changes is vital to detecting breast cancer early and that’s exactly why the supermarket is encouraging women to be their own “breast friend” and self-examine more regularly.

In a bid to raise awareness, all of Asda’s own-brand tampons, towels and liners will carry a message encouraging women to check their breasts with the hopes of saving more women’s lives.

It will mean that Asda becomes the first ever producer of sanitary products to carry a voluntary women’s health message on its packaging.

The move comes as part of Asda’s Tickled Pink campaign and will also see the supermarket donate £25,000 apiece to charities Breast Cancer Care and Breast Cancer Now.

Announced by MP and women’s health campaigner Paula Sherriff at the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Women’s Health Conference in Westminster, she said: “I’m delighted that Asda is putting this public health message on its own brand packaging. This will encourage women to take action and will save lives”.

Samia al Qadhi, CEO of Breast Cancer Care, added: “We wholeheartedly welcome Asda’s decision to print health advice on their own-brand sanitary products, encouraging women to check their breasts regularly.

“Spreading the word about the importance of breast checking in this way could save lives, as knowing the signs and symptoms of breast cancer can lead to diagnosing the cancer sooner.”

So, what are the signs and symptoms that you should be looking for?

Women are advised to check their breasts each month - aside from a lump, other signs of breast cancer include a change in breast size or shape, a rash or skin sores, nipple discharge, skin indentation, constant pain or a change in skin texture.

Similarly, swelling around the armpit or collarbone could be an indicator, as can a growing vein or inverted nipple.

If you notice any symptoms of breast cancer, the NHS advises that you see your GP as soon as possible. After examination, your GP will then refer you to a specialist breast cancer clinic if they feel your symptoms need further assessment.