Introduction

A colossal 10ft x 10ft (3m x 3m) snakes and ladders board game has taken center stage in Yorkshire, aimed at encouraging women to attend crucial breast cancer screenings.

With breast cancer claiming the lives of over 11,000 people annually in the UK, awareness and participation in screening programs are more vital than ever.

Alarmingly, the Humber and North Yorkshire Cancer Alliance reports that 46.3% of women do not show up for their first scheduled mammogram.

The Innovative Game

The innovative game serves as an engaging tool to spark conversations about breast cancer symptoms and the significance of early detection screenings.

Emily Lunn, a key figure from Hull York Medical School who developed the game, emphasized the need to make discussions about breast screening comfortable and accessible to all.

"There are numerous hurdles women face when contemplating breast screening," Lunn explained. "It's essential that we communicate that this game is not just for the women aged 50-70 who are officially invited for screening; it’s a dialogue invitation for everyone to join in."

Event Schedule

Throughout October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the game will pop up across various locations, including Hull, Bridlington, Scunthorpe, Scarborough, Selby, and York, drawing attention to the importance of regular screenings.

Trained volunteers from the Cancer Alliance will be available at these events to discuss breast cancer, share vital information about symptoms, and demonstrate how to check for signs of the disease.

Survivor's Story

Sonia Bowers, a 50-year-old survivor from Grimsby, poignantly recounted her journey after being diagnosed with breast cancer in October 2023.

Bowers’ experience highlights the very real challenges many women face when prioritizing appointments amid busy lives; she herself missed two scheduled scans before discovering a lump and seeking immediate medical assistance.

"Consider those who care about you and how devastating it would be if you waited too long for a screening," Bowers urged. "For just a couple of minutes of discomfort—the same time it takes to prepare a cup of tea—you could gain peace of mind. Early detection dramatically increases survival rates.”

Scheduled Event Locations

Scheduled event locations and timings are as follows:

- **3 October** – Morrisons, Bridlington, 10:00 to 14:00 BST

- **4 October** – The Hinge Centre, Bridlington, 10:00 to 12:00

- **9 October** – North Point Shopping Centre, Hull, 10:00 to 15:00

- **10 October** – Promenades Shopping Centre, Bridlington, 12:00 to 14:00

- **11 October** – Lidl, Queensway, Scunthorpe, 10:00 to 15:00

- **18 October** – SEAChange, Scarborough, 10:00 to 12:00

- **23 October** – Sainsbury’s, Selby, 10:00 to 15:00

- **24 October** – Morrisons, Scarborough, 10:00 to 15:00

- **30 October** – Monks Cross, York, 10:00 to 14:00 GMT

Conclusion

Don't miss this unique opportunity to learn about breast health while having fun! Engaging in this playful yet impactful initiative could change lives, so mark your calendars and spread the word!

Together, we can fight breast cancer – one game at a time.