A £1m pilot scheme has been unveiled, aiming to help women become more active and lose weight in order to reduce their chances of developing breast cancer.
ActWell have invited women over 50 to attend screenings and be a part of the trial, which is set to be based in Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh and Glasgow.
The research will be funded by the government and will be supported by Breast Cancer Now, who will work alongside researchers from the University of Dundee.
Breast Cancer Now is seeking 24 volunteers to become lifestyle coaches, who will work with women to help them make significant changes to their diet and physical activity levels.
It is believed that around 38 per cent of incidences of breast cancer in post-menopausal women could be prevented by raising activity levels, eating healthier and avoiding alcohol.
Health Secretary Shona Robison said: “Prevention is a key part of our cancer strategy.
“We know things like weight, diet and activity levels can all significantly contribute towards your risk of developing cancer.
“With breast cancer risk in women over 50, the link is particularly pronounced.
“By recruiting volunteers to work as lifestyle coaches, this scheme will test whether we can reduce those risks and save women and their families from having to face up to a cancer diagnosis.”
Mary Allison, director of Breast Cancer Now Scotland, said: “The trial has the potential to have a significant impact on reducing the risk of breast cancer in Scottish women.
“Recruiting lifestyle coaches will be integral to the success of ActWell. We’re looking for people with an interest in health and lifestyle.
“We want to attract those who are keen to make a difference to women’s lives.”
