How Common Is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer affecting women worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. Alarmingly, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime.
Key Note: Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. Regular self-examinations are essential for early detection.
The good news is that most breast cancer cases are highly treatable when detected early. We are dedicated to providing self-exam and prevention tips to help you recognize the signs and take action if necessary.
How Often Should You Self-Check For Breast Cancer?
Monthly self-examinations are highly recommended. The best time to perform these exams is one week after menstruation, when breast tissue is least swollen. However, if it’s easier for you to remember a specific date each month, that’s perfectly fine—what’s most important is consistency.
Important Reminder: Early detection greatly improves treatment outcomes. Don’t let fear prevent you from performing regular self-examinations. Remember, most cancers caught early are very treatable.
How Can I Perform a Self-Exam For Breast Cancer?
1. Visual Inspection (In Front of a Mirror)
Stand: Relax your arms at your sides.
Look for:
- Changes in size or shape
- Skin dimpling or puckering
- Redness, soreness, rash, or swelling
- Nipple changes (like inversion or position)
- Skin changes (texture, color, visible veins)
- Repeat: With your arms raised above your head, hands on hips (to flex chest muscles), and leaning forward.
2.Physical Examination (Lying Down)
Lie down:
- Place a pillow under your right shoulder and put your right arm behind your head.
Use:
- Your left hand to examine your right breast.
Patterns:
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Vertical: Move your fingers up and down from your collarbone to your bra line.
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Circular: Start at the nipple and move outward in larger circles.
- Wedge: Start at the nipple and move outward like pizza slices.
Pressure:
-
Light: Check the tissue closest to the skin.
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Medium: Feel deeper tissue.
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Firm: Examine the deep tissue close to the chest wall.
- Repeat: For your left breast.
3. Lymphatic System Check
Extend:
- Your examination to the armpit area and up to the collarbone.
Feel for:
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Unusual lumps or thickening
- Any tender spots
Technique:
- Use your fingertips
- Apply gentle but firm pressure
- Move in small circular motions
- Cover the entire underarm area systematically
4.Nipple Examination
Gently squeeze:
- Each nipple.
Look for:
- Clear or bloody discharge
- Crusting or scaling
- Color or texture changes
Note:
- If there’s any pain or tenderness, new inversion or retraction, or changes in direction.
What to Look For During a Self-Exam
Signs to Watch For:
- Lumps, hard knots, or thickening: Any unusual mass or area that feels different from the rest of the breast tissue.
- Changes in breast size or shape: Noticeable differences in the contour or symmetry of your breasts.
- Dimpling or puckering of skin: Skin that looks like an orange peel or has indentations.
- Nipple discharge or changes: Any unexpected fluid, especially if it’s bloody, or changes in the nipple’s appearance.
- Redness, warmth, swelling: Signs of inflammation or infection.
- Persistent pain in one spot: Ongoing discomfort that doesn’t go away.
- Changes that persist after your menstrual cycle: Any abnormalities that remain after your period ends.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
Seek medical attention if you notice:
- Any new lump or mass: Even if it’s small, it’s important to get it checked.
- Thickening that feels different from surrounding tissue: A noticeable change in texture.
- Change in breast size, shape, or contour: Any significant alterations.
- Dimpling, puckering, or bulging of skin: Unusual skin changes.
- Nipple that has changed position: Any shifts in the nipple’s direction or inversion.
- Redness, soreness, rash, or swelling: Persistent signs of irritation.
- Nipple discharge (especially if bloody): Any unexpected fluid.
- Persistent pain in one spot: Continuous discomfort that doesn’t subside.
Tips for Effective Self-Examination
- Set a monthly reminder: Choose a consistent date each month.
- Perform the exam at the same time each month: Ideally, a week after your menstrual cycle.
- Use a body lotion or shower gel: Helps your fingers glide smoothly over the skin.
- Take your time: Don’t rush through the process.
- Keep a journal: Note any changes or observations.
- Consider using a mobile app: Track your findings and set reminders.
- Create a quiet, private environment: Ensure you have a calm space.
- Use good lighting: Helps you see any visual changes clearly.
- Follow the same pattern each time: Consistency helps you notice changes.
- Know what’s normal for your breasts: Familiarity with your own body is key.
Bottom Line
Keep in mind:
Regular self-examinations help you understand how your breasts typically look and feel, making it easier to spot any changes. Although some changes can be due to hormonal fluctuations, any persistent changes should be checked by a healthcare provider.
