Breast cancer is a serious concern, especially for women in the UK, where it's the most common cancer. With a woman diagnosed every nine minutes, it's crucial to be aware of the signs and symptoms. Regular self-checks are an empowering way to take charge of your health and detect any changes early. Early detection can be a lifesaver, so let's dive into why and how to make this a part of your monthly routine.
But here's where it gets controversial... While the NHS offers routine screening for many cancers, there's currently no such program for young people when it comes to breast cancer. This is why self-checks and being aware of your body are so important. Knowing your body and its normal state is key to identifying potential issues early on.
Sophie Dopierala-Bull, Director of Services & Engagement at CoppaFeel!, emphasizes the importance of early detection. "If found early (stage 1), almost 100% of women survive for five years or more after diagnosis. But this drops significantly to around 25% if diagnosed at stage 4, where treatment is possible but not curative." These statistics speak volumes about the importance of regular checks.
When and how often should you check your breasts? The CoppaFeel! expert suggests making self-checking a regular habit. "It's simple and easy, and we recommend doing it once a month. You can make it part of your shower routine or any other regular activity. The key is to be consistent and comfortable." Sophie adds, "Breast tissue extends beyond what you might think - up to the collarbone and under the armpits. So, it's important to check the entire chest area."
Now, let's talk about what changes to look and feel for. There are eight key signs of breast cancer:
- Skin changes like puckering or dimpling
- Unusual lumps or swelling in the armpit or around the collarbone
- Thickening or unusual lumps
- Liquid discharge from the nipple
- Crusting or a rash on the nipple or its surrounding area
- Inward-turned or changed nipple direction
- Sudden changes in breast size or shape
- Constant, unusual pain in the breast, pec, or armpit
If you notice any of these, it's crucial to see your GP and get it checked out. While some changes might be harmless, it's always best to get a professional opinion.
Dr. Dawn Harper shared a step-by-step guide for a self-examination. She suggests starting with a visual inspection. "Stand in front of a mirror and raise your hands above your head. This lifts the breast, allowing you to see and feel underneath. For smaller-breasted women, putting your hands on your waist and tensing can move the tissue forward, revealing potential issues."
Then, for a physical inspection, use the flat of your hand to feel for changes. "Work your way around the breast, like the hands of a clock. Feel up into the armpit area, as breast tissue extends there. When examining, squeeze around the nipple to check for any discharge."
What if you find something unusual? It's important to see your GP if you notice any changes, especially if they're persistent or match the signs listed above. While many changes are harmless, it's always best to get a professional assessment. As Dr. Dawn mentions, "It's common to experience general lumpiness before a period, which often resolves quickly. But we encourage women to come back after two weeks, when they're at a different stage of their cycle, to compare and assess. Don't delay; the earlier we can catch any issues, the better the outcome."
So, let's empower ourselves and take charge of our health. Regular self-checks are a simple yet powerful way to stay aware and detect any potential issues early on. Remember, early detection saves lives, and knowledge is power!
