Prevention is better than cure
If breast cancer is found early, there are more treatment options and a better chance for survival.
Even if you feel healthy now, just being a woman and getting older puts you at risk of breast cancer. Getting checked regularly can put your mind at ease.
Finding cancer early may save your life. Women need to be familiar with how their breasts normally look and feel. Discuss any changes you observe with your health practitioner.
Breast self-examination (BSE) should be done once a month during ovulation and preferably at the same time of day.
Many women have a pattern of lumpiness in their breasts, which is normal. However, if you feel or see any change in your breasts or underarms, ask your medical practitioner to do a clinical breast examination (CBE) or refer you for further tests.
A CBE is a visual and manual examination of the entire breast, from the collarbone to the bra line, and from the armpit to the breastbone. If a CBE by a medical practitioner is not part of your routine medical check-up, ask for it.
Women who are 40 or older, or who have other risk factors, should be referred for a mammogram every two to three years.
Early breast cancer usually does not show any symptoms. But as the tumour grows, it can change how the breast looks or feels.
Common changes include:
A lump or thickening, in or near the breast, or in the armpit area.
A change in the size or shape of the breast.
Dimpling or puckering on the skin of the breast.
The nipple becoming inverted.
Abnormal discharge from the nipple.
Scaly, red or swollen skin on the breast, nipple or areola.
The skin of the breast taking on an orange peel look or feel.
Information obtained from www.cansa.org.za.
