I think it’s safe to say that we all know of someone with a cancer diagnosis. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women, after skin cancer. Recent statistics state that 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, and 1 in 1,000 men. Early detection includes doing monthly breast self-exams, and scheduling regular clinical breast exams and mammograms, and helps to increase survival rates.
Here are a few tips to be proactive with your breast health.
Symptoms you should look for:
• New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit).
• Thickening or swelling of part of the breast.
• Irritation or dimpling of breast skin.
• Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or
the breast.
• Pulling of the nipple.
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk,
including blood.
• Any change in the size or shape of the breast.
• Pain in the breast
Did you know that doing a breast self exam is just as effective at identifying changes in the lumps in your breasts as doing a formal breast exam?
How to check your breasts each month.
Check you breasts in the shower, while getting dressed, whenever you want.
* Know what is normal for you
* Use the pads of your fingers and press firmly
* Check the underarm area, the breasts, and along the color bone.
Check for lumps, thickening or puckering of the skin , any inflammation, redness or discharge from the nipples.