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Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in women. On the average, one in every nine women develops breast cancer. Early detection and new treatments have improved the five-year survival rate.
Monthly breast self-exams are the best way to detect masses early. The woman who knows the feel of her own breasts is much more likely to detect changes that develop. It is important for women to develop the habit of monthly breast exams as early as possible, preferably as an adolescent, especially if she is considered a high-risk candidate to contract the disease.
The exam should be done about one week after each menstrual period, when the breasts are typically not tender or swollen due to the hormonal changes they experience during the monthly cycle. After menopause, the exam should be done on the same day every month.
To do your breast self-exam, begin looking at your breasts by standing or sitting in front of a mirror. You will need to look at the breasts in three different positions. First, start with both arms relaxed at your side. Then examine them with both arms extended straight over your head. Also, you will need to study your breasts with both hands placed on your hips while leaning forward. While inspecting them in the mirror, look first at each breast individually. Then compare each breast with the other one. Some size difference between the breasts is normal. Do you see any redness, puckering, or dimpling? Do you see any lumpiness? Do you notice any swelling or the appearance of “orange peel skin”? This refers to thickened areas of skin on the breasts with large pores. Stretch marks that are red at the onset or whitish with age are normal. But if you notice any of the above-mentioned abnormalities, you should contact your health care provider for further examination.
Next, look at your nipples. Some women have inverted nipples normally. But, if you notice an inverted nipple that was once previously capable of being erect, you should notify your physician. Look for any changes, flattening, or broadening of the nipples. Do you see any rashes or discharge?
After carefully examining your breasts in the mirror, you need to continue with the next step of the exam, palpation or the careful exam of your breasts by feeling for any changes. Many times women can detect changes in the texture or feel of their breasts that cannot be seen at first. This is why it is so important that women learn the feel of their breasts during the monthly exams. The earlier the changes may be detected, the better the chances of effective treatment for breast cancer.
Lie down, and place one hand behind your head. Using the other hand, with fingers flattened, gently feel your breasts, pressing lightly. Begin close to the nipple, working in a circular motion, moving away from the nipples onto the breasts. Feel gently looking for lumps, thickenings, or other changes that you have not noticed before. Examine all parts of each breast. Now, sit up, and repeat this same procedure with your hand behind your head. Finally, squeeze the nipples gently between your thumb and forefingers, looking for any discharge. If you notice any type of discharge at all, you should note the color, and how much and notify your doctor.
Remember that early detection is vital for effective treatment of breast cancer. Discuss any questions or suspicions of abnormalities that you may find with your health care provider. No question or concern should be taken lightly; it is your future that this concerns.
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