According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), one in 29 women and one in 922 men has a lifetime risk of breast cancer (National Cancer Registry 2011). Cancer does not discriminate: if you have breasts, you are at risk.
Being proactive against breast cancer is the greatest gift you can give yourself. Examine your breasts and underarms at least once a month to check for any changes. If you find anything unusual, see a doctor without delay.
Inspect your breasts in four ways
- Holding your arms at your sides.
- Holding your arms overhead.
- Pressing your hands on your hips to tighten your chest muscles.
- Bending forward with your hands on your hips.
How to do a breast self-examination
In front of a mirror: Visually inspect your breasts with your arms at your sides. Next, raise your arms over your head. Look for changes in the shape, size or appearance of your breasts like dimpling, a rash (contact dermatitis), puckering of the skin or nipple, nipple discharge, or anything unusual.
Lying down: Place one hand behind your head and use the three middle fingers of your opposite hand to press using light, medium and firm pressure in a circular motion. Follow an up-and-down pattern and a wedge pattern (with the nipple in the centre). Feel for changes in your breast near your collarbone and armpits.
In the shower: Using the pads of your fingers, move around the entire breast in circular movements. Feel for any changes in breast tissue (like thickening or hard lumps).
Get your breasts examined at Clicks Clinics
Breast examinations are offered at all Clicks Clinics. Call 0860 254 257 to make an appointment at your closest clinic. A Clicks Clinic Sister will gladly examine any breast lumps you’re concerned about and give you the advice and support that you need.
IMAGE CREDIT: 123rf.com, Illustrations by Andrew Sutherland