Information on Self Examination of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a commonly seen cancer among women. Every woman should be aware of any changes that appear in her breasts. The majority of breast cancer cases occur in women aged over 50. The incidence increases with age. The stage at which a woman has breast cancer diagnosed greatly influences her survival chances. The earlier the detection, the greater is the chances of survival. Women from the lower socio-economic class and women living in rural areas have a lower risk. Having a baby before the age of 20 has a protective effect.

The risk of breast cancer is more in women who have had their first baby after the age of 35. In this article you will learn how to self examine your breasts for breast cancer. Here is a five point plan for routine self examination:

1. Know what shape and size of the breast is normal for you.

2. Carefully examine the look and feel.

3. Know what changes to look for.

4. Report any changes without delay.

5. Go in for breast screening regularly around the age of 40 or above. Go in for mammography.

Every young woman should know how to examine her own breasts after each menstrual period. Before dressing, lie on your back with a small pillow under the shoulder on the side you are examining. This tends to flatten out the breast and makes the detection of any tumors that much easier. Then using the soft, flat part of the fingers of the opposite hand, gently palpate or feel the breast tissues, outlining the normal curves of the breasts and noting whether any small masses are developing either within the breast tissue itself or up in the armpit. Then place the pillow under the other shoulder and carry out the same procedure, using the other hand.

It is suggested that before menopause, normal breasts feel different at different times of the month. The milk producing tissues in the breast become active in the days before a period starts. In some women, the breast feels tender and lumpy, especially near the armpits. After a hysterectomy, the breasts usually show the same differences every month until the time when the periods would have stopped. After menopause, activity in the milk producing tissues stops. Normal breasts feel soft and less firm. They are not lumpy either.

Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.

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