With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is not only important to recognize the powerful individuals who have overcome their battle with breast cancer, but also heed their advice, and be aware of our bodies. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, 40% of diagnosed breast cancers are discovered during self exams, which is why it is so important to self-check as regularly as once a month. It can definitely be scary to think about, so I understand wanting to put it off, but, ultimately, it’s for the best!
A self-exam involves looking out for both visual and physical markers.
First, you’ll want to look in the mirror and raise both arms. This will lift your skin and allow for you to better spot any changes in the contour of your skin, or any bumps and dimples that might have recently developed. Now, of course we all know that your ladies rarely ever are twins, which is a-okay (all chests are good chests!), but look out for any overtly noticeable dimples or visible furrowing along either breast.
Following the visual check you can start to actually feel for discernible lumps. Starting next to the armpit, applying a medium amount of pressure, feel around the side and underneath of the breast, going around for noticeable hard tissue or tightened knots. Keep in mind that you might not notice anything off the first time, which is why it’s so important to be consistent and conduct these easy self-exams regularly so that if a change should occur, you’ll be able to notice it.
And that’s it! It is so extremely simple and can be done in a matter of minutes. You can check before getting dressed or after hopping in the shower but at least once a month, take that time out of your day and prioritize your health by doing a quick self-exam.
For more information and other means of early detection, visit the National Breast Cancer Foundation website at nationalbreastcancer.org.