Breast Cancer Awareness month takes place from 1 – 31 October each year. Aside from raising awareness a major component of it is to drive action, so people can take charge of their breast health in a way that’s empowering and preventative. ANYONE is at risk of breast cancer, as long as you have breast tissue you can develop breast cancer. However, some factors like age, genetics, diet and lifestyle can have a significant influence on whether or not someone’s risk is high or low. Breast self-examinations should be done at least once a month, and if you menstruate it should only be done when your period is over. It’s important to note that self-examinations alone aren’t effective in detecting cancer. We recommend combining self-exams with screenings by a medical professional every 6 months. Below are the four steps to do your self-exam:
Step 1:
Stand in front of a mirror with both hands on your hips and check your breasts. With this step you’re checking for any abnormalities regarding the shape, size, texture or color of each breast. If you notice the skin dimpling, puckering or bulging or a significant change in nipple size, redness or swelling then it’s best to have a doctor look into it. Here, you’re also checking for any discharge or liquid coming out of the nipple.
Step 2:
Raise your arms in the mirror and look for the same changes or abnormalities mentioned in step 1.
Step 3:
Lay down on a comfortable surface and with your fingers press against your breasts to check for any lumps or abnormalities. Use your right hand to feel your left breast and your left hand to feel your right breast. Using your index and middle fingers, press down on the breast in a circular motion. Make sure to examine the entire beast, from left to right, top to bottom, and your armpit to your cleavage. If you’re not sure where to begin, you can start at the nipple and work your way outwards right up till the collarbone.
Step 4:
Using the same method as step 3, but instead of laying down feel your breasts while sitting or standing. A great way to do this is in the shower or bath, because the water provides extra lubrication making it easier to examine and navigate the breast tissue. Don’t forget to check your armpit and right up till your collarbone too.
If you do find a lump or anything that seems suspicious or you’re not sure about, it’s best to get a second opinion. Most of the time lumps in the breast aren’t cancerous and can be caused by hormonal fluctuations. However, we still highly recommend getting a medical professional to look into it.
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