Breast cancer is cancer that
develops from breast tissue. Breast cancer starts when cells in
the breast begin to grow out of control. These cells usually form a tumour often seen on an x-ray or felt as a lump.
Signs of breast cancer may include
a lump in the breast, a change in breast shape, dimpling of
the skin, fluid coming from the nipple, a newly inverted nipple, or a red or
scaly patch of skin. In those with distant spread of the disease, there
may be bone pain, swollen lymph nodes, shortness of breath,
or yellow skin
SELF BREAST EXAMINATION TIPS
Step 1
Begin by looking at your breasts in the mirror
with your shoulders straight and your arms on your hips.
Here’s what you should look for:
- Breasts
that are their usual size, shape, and colour.
- Breasts
that are evenly shaped without visible distortion or swelling. If you see
any of the following changes, bring them to your doctor’s attention:
- Dimpling,
puckering, or bulging of the skin.
- A
nipple that has changed position or become inverted (pushed inward
instead of sticking out).
- Redness,
soreness, rash, or swelling.
Step 2&3
Raise your arms and look for the same changes.
While at the mirror, gently squeeze each nipple between your finger and
thumb and check for nipple discharge (this could be a milky or yellow fluid or
blood).
Step 4
Feel your breasts while lying down, using your
right hand to feel your left breast and then your left hand to feel your right
breast. Use a firm, smooth touch with the first few fingers of your hand, keeping
the fingers flat and together. Cover the entire breast from top to bottom, side
to side—from your collarbone to the top of your abdomen, and from your armpit
to your cleavage.
Step 5
Finally, feel your breasts while you are
standing or sitting. Many women find that the easiest way to feel their breasts
is when their skin is wet and slippery, so they like to do this step in the
shower. Cover your entire breast, using the same hand movements described in “Step
4â€.
BREAST CANCER PREVENTION METHODS
The main aim is early detection through
Education/Awareness
- Screening
- Breast
Self-examination
- Clinical
Breast Examination
- Mammography
Early detection saves lives!
For further enquiries; visit any of our
branches or call us: 0302 798 221/ 0551 420 412
