Breast Awareness: Understanding the Importance of Regular Self-Checks

Breast awareness involves being familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel so that you can quickly identify any unusual changes. It is an essential part of maintaining breast health, as early detection of any abnormalities can lead to timely medical intervention, improving outcomes, particularly in the case of breast cancer.

Why is Breast Awareness Important?

Early Detection of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. Early detection of any abnormal changes in the breast can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment. Women who are familiar with the normal look and feel of their breasts are more likely to spot unusual changes early.

Self-Empowerment and Health Awareness

Regularly checking your breasts helps you take control of your own health. By staying informed about what is normal for you, it empowers you to seek medical advice promptly if you notice anything concerning.
Not Just for Women
While breast cancer is much more common in women, men can also develop breast cancer. It's important for men to be aware of their breast tissue and to check for any changes, especially if they have risk factors such as a family history of breast cancer.

How to Be Breast Aware

Breast awareness does not require a specific technique or schedule. Instead, it involves being alert to changes over time and checking your breasts regularly, so you understand what’s normal for you.
Key Steps for Breast Awareness:
Look and Feel: Regularly observe your breasts in the mirror, both with your arms raised and at your sides, and feel for changes while lying down or in the shower. This can be done at any time, but some women prefer to check at the same time each month, as hormonal changes can affect how breasts feel.

What to Look Out For:

Changes in size or shape of the breast.
Lumps or thickening of breast tissue that feels different from the rest.
Any dimpling or puckering of the skin.
Nipple changes, such as inversion (turning inward) or discharge (especially if it's bloody or clear).
Rash or crusting around the nipple.
Any area of the breast that feels different from the rest (such as being harder or more swollen).
Don’t Ignore Pain: While breast pain is often due to non-cancerous causes, any persistent pain or discomfort should not be ignored.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you notice any of the changes listed above or anything unusual, it is important to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Most changes do not indicate cancer, but it is always better to have them checked by a doctor.

Breast Cancer Screening

In addition to regular self-checks, mammograms (breast X-rays) are a crucial tool for detecting breast cancer in its early stages. In the UK, the NHS Breast Screening Programme invites women aged 50 to 71 for mammograms every three years, though women at higher risk may be offered earlier or more frequent screenings.

Conclusion

Breast awareness is about understanding what is normal for you so that any unusual changes can be identified and addressed early. Regular self-checks and professional screenings are key in detecting potential issues, including breast cancer, at the earliest possible stage. Remember, most breast changes are not cancerous, but it's always best to get them checked.
Doctors also need to remain vigilant when addressing any breast-related concerns. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and provide patients with peace of mind.

For further information:

NHS - Breast Cancer Screening: NHS Breast Screening
Breast Cancer Now: Breast Cancer Now - Being Breast Aware

Dr Geranmayeh