Increase the odds of early detection

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month we focus on early detection of breast  cancer and the steps to take as precautionary measures to assist in early detection.

Regularly examining your breasts can be an important way to find a breast cancer early, and it’s more likely to be treated successfully. We at RBMI believe that performing breast self-exam in combination with other screening methods can increase the odds of early detection.

HOW TO DO SELF-EXAM AT HOME:

Women should be familiar with how their breasts normally look and feel and should report any changes to a health care provider right away.

Step 1:

Begin by looking at your breasts in the mirror with your shoulders straight and your arms on your hips. Check that your breasts are their usual size, shape and colour, and that they are evenly shaped without visible distortion or swelling. Look out for: • Dimpling, puckering, or bulging of the skin • A nipple that has changed position or an inverted nipple (pushed inward instead of sticking out) • Redness, soreness, rash, or swelling

Step 2:

Raise your arms and look for the same changes.

Step 3:

While you’re at the mirror, look for fluid coming out of one or both  nipples (this could be a watery, milky, or yellow fluid or blood).

Step 4:

Feel your breasts while lying down, using your right hand to feel your left breast and then your left hand to feel your right breast. Put your index and middle fingers together and make a circular motion, following a pattern that covers the entire breast from top to bottom, side to side — from your collarbone to the top of your abdomen, and from your armpit to your cleavage.

Step 5:

Feel your breasts while standing or sitting. Cover your entire breast, using the same hand movements described in step 4. Don’t panic if you think you feel a lump in your breast. Most women have some lumps or lumpy areas in their breasts, and these are often benign (not cancer). Don’t hesitate to call your doctor if you’ve noticed a lump or other breast change that is new and worrisome.