This October, Barnsley Football Club is supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month by promoting the important role screening plays in the fight against breast cancer.

The Reds have teamed up with their local breast screening unit and are urging all their fans to make sure the women in their lives are taking up their all-important breast screening invites.

Approximately one in eight women are diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime. Early detection through screening offers a better chance of successful treatment and full recovery.

Marc Roberts who plays for the club and is also from Barnsley said: “Often it is the women in our lives who make sure we are healthy and visiting the doctor when we need to. During breast cancer awareness month it’s the men’s turn to look after their wives and mothers by making sure they are taking up the breast screening invites.

“Screening can pick up things that women might not be able to feel themselves which is why it is crucial we encourage all Barnsley women to attend their appointments.”

During October’s home match against Fulham the team will be warming up in breast screening campaign t-shirts displaying the messages ‘breast screening saves lives’ and ‘join the fight take up your invite’ as a reminder to fans about the important role screening plays in the detection of breast cancer.

Wayne Bullimore, Chief Executive, Reds in the Community said: “The health of our fans and the local community is extremely important to the club. Breast cancer affects so many people which is why we are keen to get behind this campaign and encourage as many women as possible to take up their breast screening invitations.”

Breast screening is offered every three years to all women aged 50 to 70 with some women being called up as early as 47 through an age extension programme. 

Judith Clark, Superintendant Radiographer at Barnsley Hospital said: “We are very grateful to Barnsley Football club for helping us reach out to the local community and encourage Barnsley women to take up their breast screening invites.

“Women attending their breast screening appointments every three years from the age of 50 can help detect breast cancer early and ensure prompter treatment.”

Women who have missed or need to reschedule an appointment can contact the breast screening unit on: 01226 432100.

Early detection offers a better chance of successful treatment and full recovery. Join the fight take up your invite.