What Every Woman Needs To Know About Detecting Breast Cancer Early

As a woman it’s important to watch out for any signs of breast cancer and there are easy ways to do this yourself. Remember though, it’s always best to consult a doctor if you are in any doubt.

Self-examinations

Many women avoid carrying out breast self-examinations for fear of finding something. A lump in the breast is the most common symptom of breast cancer, but the vast majority of these are benign. It is important to carry out regular self-examinations so that you are familiar with your own body, and can better detect any changes. Hormones can cause changes to the shape and feel of breasts too so it is best to perform an examination a few days after the end of a menstrual cycle, or on the same day each month for women who are not menstruating.

Changes in appearance

As well as lumps, a change in the size or shape of the breast, dimpling of the skin, an inverted (turned in) nipple, a rash or discharge around the nipple or swelling in the armpit are also common signs that warrant medical evaluation.

Clinical tests

The American Cancer Society recommends that breast self-examination is carried out regularly from the age of 20 onwards, and that women have a clinical breast examination by a physician every 3 years up to the age of 39 and every year after that. Women over 40 should also have a mammogram every year.

Early diagnosis