'Kylie effect' boosts cancer fight

More women are asking to be screened for breast cancer as a result of Kylie Minogue's diagnosis with the disease.

The number seeking referral to a specialist has risen by as much as a quarter, leading experts to call the increase the 'Kylie effect'.

And doctors say that as more women visit clinics, more cases are being detected and treated earlier, saving more lives.

When the pop singer revealed she had breast cancer in May last year she made headlines around the world.

The news was particularly shocking for many because of her age - she was then 36 and the picture of health. The illness normally affects women over 50.

But her diagnosis now appears to have acted as a wake-up call for many women, especially those under 40.

At the breast care centre at Frenchay Hospital in Bristol there has been a 25 per cent rise in the number of women visiting the unit.

Consultant surgeon Dr Simon Cawthorne said that in July alone screenings had risen from 400 a month to 500. 'There has been a notable rise in women of all ages being referred since Miss Minogue was diagnosed,' he said.

'Miss Minogue's case has highlighted the importance of self-examination, especially in younger women who are less aware of the symptoms.'

Staff have also noticed a sharp increase in the number of women referred for screening at the breast care unit at Nottingham City Hospital and also at the Royal Devon and Exeter Breast Care Unit.