Shirley Ballas has issued a compassionate plea, urging women to do one thing. While the Strictly Come Dancing judge, 64, is in ‘pretty good health’, she stressed the importance of regular cancer screenings, as they could just save your life.
“To all women invited for NHS breast screenings,” she said, taking to Instagram earlier this week. “I am Shirley Ballas, head judge on Strictly Come Dancing. I am 64 years old and I think I am in pretty good health.
“I’ve also had many scares when it comes to the different various cancers, so I’m encouraging women to always make sure that they get their breast screenings done. Make it a priority.
“So many times, we leave things because we’re too busy with our lives. We don’t always want to get things done there and then. I think it’s vital to be vigilant, ladies. Make sure you get there if you can. It might just save your life. Love and hugs.”
Shirley’s alert was soon with flooded with countless supportive messages including one from co-star Amy Dowden, who posted pink heart and praying hands emojis. Viewers of the BBC show will know that Amy herself was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2023.
The professional dancer found a lump in her breast just a day before leaving for her honeymoon and has since had chemotherapy and a mastectomy to fight the cancer. In February last year, she joyfully announced that scans indicated ‘no evidence of disease’, Manchester Evening News reports.
Although she still requires monthly hospital visits for injections, Amy made a victorious return to dancing and graced the Strictly ballroom once again in 2024. On Instagram, she recently reflected on her journey, claiming that pictures taken of herself during treatment were no longer recognisable.
“Back then, just over a year ago, I dreamed and hoped to be doing what I am now,” she told her followers. “But it felt a million miles away and many a times impossible! Here I am on tour about to do another double show day and giving myself a pat on the back for just how far I’ve come and how hard I’ve worked to get back on the dance floor, both physically and mentally.
“I’m so happy right now and grateful for every day, opportunity and second on that dance floor. To those going through their own battles, journey, remember to be kind to yourself and I’m sending you all my Welsh love. PS THIS IS A GENTLE REMINDER TO CHECK YOURSELF.”
How can I get a breast screening?
The NHS invites females registered with a GP to take a breast screening every three years between the ages of 50 and 71. These invitations are generally sent in the post.
“If you’re a trans man, trans woman or are non-binary you may be invited automatically, or you may need to talk to your GP surgery or call the local breast screening service to ask for an appointment,” the healthy body adds. “You need to be registered with a GP surgery to be invited for breast screening.”
However, anyone who notices unusual changes in their breasts is encouraged to seek GP advice, regardless of their age. The NHS adds: “Lumps in the breasts can have lots of different causes. They’re often caused by something harmless like a non-cancerous tissue growth (fibroadenoma) or a build-up of fluid (breast cyst).
“Sometimes, a breast lump can be a sign of something serious like breast cancer. Do not try to self-diagnose the cause of your lump – always see a GP.”
Further information is available at the NHS website.