Age has been identified as the "strongest" risk factor associated with breast cancer and it is "most important" that women over the age of 50 attend regular breast screening appointments, according to Cancer Research UK.

Alison Ross, cancer information officer, said that women who become mothers later in life will have an increased chance of breast cancer, but this risk is "relatively small" when put into context with other factors that can affect risk levels.

She added that post-menopausal women who are overweight are also at greater risk of developing the disease.

"Breast cancer is easiest to treat when caught early. So it is really important for all women to be breast-aware by making sure they check for any unusual changes in the size, shape or feel of their breasts and reporting them promptly," she said.

"But the most important thing is for women over 50 to attend regular breast screening appointments when invited."

Cancer Research UK is a leading independent organisation dedicated to addressing the disease. It supports research into all aspects of cancer through the work of more than 3,000 scientists, doctors and nurses.