Scotland footballers tackle breast cancer

Women footballers have teamed up with a charity to raise awareness of the most common cancer among females in Scotland.

The Scottish Women’s Football Association and Breakthrough Breast Cancer will use social networking to highlight the importance of exercise as a way to cut the risk of developing the disease.

The partnership, titled One Goal and kicked off by health secretary Nicola Sturgeon, also aims to raise awareness among women footballers and the wider public about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer.

Audrey Birt, the charity’s Scotland director, said: “We are really excited about this partnership as it will not only help promote breast awareness to women, but also the value of exercise for improving your physical health and longer-term benefits, such as reducing risk of breast cancer.”

Maureen McGonigle, executive administrator at Scottish Women’s Football, said: “This is where women’s football can create most interest – reaching players, clubs and volunteers alike.

“Breakthrough will team up with clubs and players on Twitter to communicate throughout the season important messages about breast cancer.”