MANY women know what Kylie Minogue is going through. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, with 41,000 new cases in Britain every year.

They all understand the emotional turmoil Kylie is undergoing: fear, anger, anguish, even guilt.

She has the added pressure of being a superstar whose life will now come under yet more scrutiny.

But she can draw comfort from the millions of fans wishing her well. Contributors to our news analysis tonight offer words of hope and good sense. Radio York presenter Julia Booth's mother was diagnosed with the disease when she was the same age as Kylie. Medical advances give the singer a much greater chance of survival.

Thirty years ago, cancer was spoken of in hushed tones. Today that taboo has been broken, and, as Julia notes, Kylie's ordeal will raise awareness of the disease more effectively than any advertising campaign.

Tellingly, Kylie was only persuaded to go to the doctor by her boyfriend Olivier Martinez. The early diagnosis will be a crucial factor in her recovery. The message to all women, young and old, is clear: examine yourself regularly and go to the doctor the moment you suspect any changes.

Many of the 5,000 participants in the Race For Life on York's Knavesmire in July will be taking part because they or their loved ones have been hit by breast cancer.

This year's theme is "celebrating survival". Everyone will wish Kylie can join those celebrations soon.

Updated: 11:35 Wednesday, May 18, 2005