Living with breast cancer, the most common type of cancer found among women in the world, can be very difficult.

Many women find it extremely helpful to talk with others who have had breast cancer or who are currently dealing with the disease.

The groups below provide excellent support to those living with breast cancer in the South West.

Young Women 4 Women
Young Women 4 Women is an informal breast cancer support group based in the Bristol area. The group is aimed at younger women and offers a chance to chat over coffee with someone who knows what it is like to go through a diagnosis. Everyone is welcome, no matter what hospital you attend, what treatment you are receiving or what stage you are at. There's no need to book ahead, just turn up!
Day of meeting: First Sunday of the month
Time of meeting: 3pm-5pm
Meeting held at: Breast Care Centre, Frenchay Hospital, Bristol

Rhondda Breast Friends
Rhondda Breast Friends offers support facilities for people suffering both directly and indirectly from breast cancer.
The group meets on the last Monday of each month with guest speakers, support, talk time and hair and beauty advice. All items are conducted by trained individuals and we are supported by both Macmillan and Cancer Care Cymru.
Day of meeting: Last Monday of every month
Time of meeting: 12-2pm
Meeting held: Maes Yr Haf community centre, Trealaw, RCT
Contact: 01443683220

Exeter Secondary Breast Cancer Support Group
Day of meeting: First and third Wednesday of each month
Time of meeting: 2pm-3.30pm
Meeting held at: Force Centre, Corner House, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford), Barrack Road, Exeter, EX2 5DW
Contact: For further details call 01392 402 707

Exeter Younger Woman's Breast Cancer Support Group
Day of meeting: First Wednesday of each month
Time of meeting: 1.30pm-3.00pm
Meeting held at: Force Centre, Corner House, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford), Barrack Road, Exeter, EX2 5DW
Contact: For further details call 01392 406151

Breast cancer facts

Research conducted by Imaginis shows that breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in women (after lung cancer) worldwide and is the most common type of cancer found among women in the world.

According to figures from the World Health Organization (WHO), around 1.5 million people worldwide will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007.

Earlier detection and better treatments have improved mortality rates in recent years. The majority of breast cancers will be treated with surgery to remove the tumour.