breast self-exam
- IT TAKES ONLY A FEW
MINUTES ONCE A MONTH. HERE'S WHAT YOU DO.
how
often should you do it?
The American Cancer Society recommends monthly self-exams for
women 20 and older.
why
you should do it
Breast cancer is the second most deadly cancer for women.
Tumors can grow quickly -- especially in women in their 40s -- so annual clinical exams
alone don't provide the best protection. When the disease is found and treated in the
early stages, odds of survival are greatly increased.
While there is no proof that breast self-exams reduce your
risk of dying of breast cancer, studies have shown that women who conduct self-exams tend
to find growths that are much smaller and less advanced than those found in women who do
not. Since self-exams don't do any harm and take only a few minutes, why not get into the
habit?
how
to do it
The best time to examine your breasts is about a week after
your period begins, or if you've reached menopause, choose the same time to do it each
month.
You're looking for any unusual lumps, dimpling, or
thickening in the breasts, as well as discharge from the nipple or any other
abnormalities.
Start by looking at your breasts in front of a mirror,
first with your arms at your sides, then raised over your head, and finally, with hands
pressed on your hips, flexing your chest muscles.
Next, examine your breasts in the shower, keeping your
fingers flat and moving them over each breast. This can be done in a few different ways --
in circular motions, pressing gently every inch or so and moving closer to the nipple with
each circle, in long, vertical strips, or moving in toward your nipple like spokes on a
wheel.
Finally, lie down with a small pillow under the shoulder
of the breast you will examine. Put that hand under your head. With your other hand,
examine your breast in the same manner as above. Repeat with the other breast. Gently
squeeze each nipple to check for discharge. It's important to feel under your arm as
well.
when
to call the doctor
If you experience discharge or you find a lump or
thick-feeling area in your breast or armpit that fits any of the following descriptions,
see your doctor right away:
- doesn't move when touched
- is hard or has irregular borders
- is not the same in both breasts
- stays the same size throughout your menstrual cycle
Most lumps are not cancerous, but only your doctor will be
able to determine the nature of yours. For more information, talk to your doctor. |
