One of the most effective ways of reducing the risk of breast cancer is to promote early detection.
This can mean simpler, more effective treatment as the cancer can be addressed when it is smaller and less well established. Early detection relies on breast awareness and regular screening.
| It is never too late to get into the habit of regular screening and breast examination. |
Breast awareness
The goal of breast awareness is to become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel. Doctors recommend that you do a regular examination of your breasts once a month. Try to get into the habit of doing this on a specific day so that you develop a routine that you can stick to.
The more you do this, the more accustomed you will become to your own breasts and the easier it will be for you to detect something out of the ordinary.
| 90% of all breast cancers are found through personal breast examination. |
When should I examine my breasts?
In general, it is best to do this on a fixed day of each month. This way you are more likely to remember. If you are menstruating, pick a day about a week after your period when your breasts are smallest.
How do I examine my breasts?
Breast examination is a personal procedure, and only you will be able to decide the best way to approach it.
Find a routine that you will feel confident in repeating. The important point is to make sure that you observe and feel your entire breast tissue which includes the area under your armpit.
Let's start off with observation. Stand in front of a mirror with your arms by your side and observe carefully your breasts look for alterations in skin texture and make sure you turn sideways so that you can see each breast in profile. This will help you spot changes in outline.
Next, lie on your back with a pillow under your head. Place your right arm behind your head. With your left hand, use your fingertips to gently feel every part of your right breast.
Then complete the examination by putting your left arm behind your head and check your left breast in the same way.
It is easier to be sure that you have covered the whole breast if you have a system, perhaps performing a clockwise circular motion, either towards or way from the nipple whatever you personally prefer. It may be that you would rather do this with a soapy hand after a bath or shower.
Whatever you decide, stick to it and perform the same examination each time.
What do I look for?
| The most common signs to be alert for as you get older are: - lumps of any size
- discharge from the nipple
- an inverted nipple
- a change in the contour of the breast such as a dent
- skin dimpling or puckering
- breast swelling and/or pain not associated with menstruation/menopause
Your breasts go through many natural changes as you age and this can make knowing what to test and feel for a bit confusing. For this reason, regular examination is even more important. |
You may notice that your breasts gradually become softer and less dense with time. This is due to moderate shrinking of the tissue and can also make your breasts appear smaller. More and more of your breast will be made up of fatty tissue this has its advantages, as it can make a potential lump easier to find.
Dont panic if you feel your breasts are lumpy - it is quite common and it certainly does not necessarily follow that any and every lump is cancerous.
The crucial factor is knowing what is normal for you and what is not - and that is why regular examination is vital. Over time you will appreciate what lumpiness is normal for you. If a change occurs that you do not remember, or a familiar lumpy area feels larger or different in some way, you should alert your doctor as soon as you can.
If you are uncertain at any time it is always best to err on the side of caution and get it checked particularly as you begin to monitor your breasts more carefully. Remember regular examination of your breasts will help you to quickly spot and act on changes as early as possible allowing for earlier detection, diagnosis and treatment, should it be necessary.
It can be difficult to carry out breast examination correctly - and some cancers are not easily detected in this way. You should always focus on breast awareness, and attend regular screening provided by your local health authority. Knowing how your breasts normally feel is the most important thing to consider. Read more about self-examination in the Latest research section.
02/06/2009