Importance of a Self Breast Examination

Approximately 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their life. It is currently one of the most common cancers in the world along with lung, prostate, and colon cancers. Because there is such a high prevalence, it has been a main focus in cancer research for years. One of the most important factors in the severity of a breast cancer diagnosis is early detection. The earlier the cancer is found, the more likely that individual can recover and be treated accordingly for it without the disease progressing. There are many resources in place that do just this such as mammograms, genetic testing, and examinations performed by healthcare providers, however, women can take things into their own hands using a self breast exam to potentially save their own lives.

A self breast examination is one of the many things women can incorporate into their routines in efforts to better and remain in control of their health. It is fairly easy and not time-consuming but is a key component in diagnosing breast cancer. It is recommended that all women perform a self breast examination every month, especially if there is a family history of breast cancer. Doing this will not only help detect any lumps in the breast tissue but also allow women to become more cognizant of any changes in their body.

A routine self breast examination can be performed as follows:

1. Perform an exam in the shower using 3 fingerpads and apply pressure around the entire breast into the underarm area.

2. Use different types of pressure and make sure to check both breasts. You are looking for any bumps, thickening, or any other changes.

3. Then stand in front of a mirror and look for any visible changes in both breasts as well as nipples.

4. Then lie down with a pillow under your shoulder so the breast tissue spreads out.

5. Using your other hand repeat steps as if you were in the shower and remember to move into the underarm area, too.

6. Repeat on both sides, moving the pillow underneath the other shoulder.

7. If you find a bump or any other changes call your doctor to make an appointment.

The breast changes mentioned in the steps above include but are not limited to persistent breast pain, signs of irritation, nipple inversion, or new lumps and are all reasons for seeking an evaluation by a physician. Although 8 out of 10 masses felt are usually non cancerous, 40% of diagnosed breast cancers are masses found by women during a breast self-exam. If you are interested in learning more about self breast exams or breast cancer in general, please visit the National Breast Cancer Foundation website (https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/).

References

“Breast Self-Exam.” National Breast Cancer Foundation, 6 June 2022, https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-self-exam?gclid=CjwKCAjw5NqVBhAjEiwAeCa97TrUlEdjy6Or9DdQunMpgQCXlGoOWcIKJKKo0hUJuOoS-jnXqd2TvBoCu6kQAvD_BwE.

“Breast Cancer Facts.” National Breast Cancer Foundation, 20 May 2022, https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-facts.