Free sports prostheses for breast cancer patients

Cancer charities say the prostheses will boost patients' confidence

Cancer patients in Wales who request a specialist sports prosthesis following breast surgery are to receive it free on the NHS.

Women will be entitled to a prosthesis specifically designed for swimming or sports in addition to an "everyday" one.

Health Minister Edwina Hart said the new national policy will ensure consistency for women across Wales.

The move has been welcomed by cancer charities.

A breast prosthesis is an artificial breast form that can fit in a bra cup or specially formed pocket to replace all or part of the natural breast.

They are mostly used by women who have had all or part of their breast or breasts removed.

The sports prosthetic type costs around £30 more than the everyday type, which each cost between £160-£210.

The new policy will require Local Health Boards to give prostheses free to all women who have undergone breast surgery.

Consistent provision

Mrs Hart said: "At such a difficult time, it is important women have access to the care and support they need to help them return to their daily routines to help aid their recovery.

"I also recognise the importance of regular exercise and the benefits that physical activity can have in improving both physical and mental wellbeing.

"A national policy for breast prostheses will ensure that provision is consistent throughout Wales."

Head of Breast Cancer Care Cymru Linda McCarthy said a prosthesis can help improve women's confidence after surgery.

Women can continue with the activities they enjoyed before diagnosis Linda McCarthy, Breast Cancer Care Cymru

"Surgery for breast cancer, including mastectomies, can drastically affect a woman's body image and confidence," she said.

"For those who choose not to have reconstruction, or have delayed reconstruction for personal or medical reasons, a prosthesis can play a vital role in helping them to regain that confidence.

"Today's announcement that the NHS in Wales will provide a free specialist sports prosthesis is excellent news, as it means that women can continue with the activities they enjoyed before diagnosis.

"However, we would urge anyone who has had treatment for breast cancer to talk to their care team before resuming, or starting, an exercise programme."

Prostheses specially made for swimming or sport are not widely available from the NHS in the UK.

Before this announcement, sports prostheses were not available on the NHS in Wales and had to be purchased by patients.