Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women and is the second leading cause of death among women. It is estimated that 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. There are several ways we can prevent or screen for breast cancer, but the most effective method is by having a self-breast examination.
What is a self-breast examination?
Self-breast examinations (SBEs) are a powerful tool for finding breast cancer early when the cure rate is much higher. SBEs can be performed by women at any point during their lifetime but are most useful in the 40-45 age range when women are more likely to have breast cancer. If an SBE detects a lump, a doctor should check it who will provide a diagnosis and treatment options.
Breast self-exam is an important part of the health process of women of reproductive age, and if a woman is pregnant, it can be because of or during pregnancy. Even if you are not a woman, the breast self-exam is beneficial to your health as well. It can help you identify any early signs of cancer or any other health problem.
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women, with the second most common being ovarian cancer. And although it is more common in men, breast cancer is more likely to affect women than men. The risk factors for breast cancer are female, but even though it is a disease that primarily targets women, it is just as likely to affect men, and in some instances, it can be more common in men. To learn more about breast cancer, its risk factors, and the symptoms to look out for, it’s important to visit the site of a reputable health organization or medical center. It is possible that you can find detailed information on the different types of breast cancer, as well as the latest research and treatment options on such websites.
What is the importance of self-breast examinations?
- To detect the disease easily.
Breast cancer can run in families, and among young women, the disease can be passed to them by their mothers through breast milk, making breast self-examination an important tool to detect the disease early. A self-exam can let you know whether you should go for a mammogram screening in Hackettstown, NJ, or at an imaging center near you, to confirm your suspicions. Catching breast cancer early can greatly increase the chances of getting successfully treated for it.
- To take necessary actions towards improving one’s health.
Regular breast self-examinations are an important part of understanding the health of our breasts. Knowing the health of your breasts can help you feel more confident and take the right steps towards improving your health. It is also a good way to become aware of any changes in your breasts that may indicate possible breast cancer
- To get the necessary care and treatment needed.
When faced with a health concern, like breast cancer, it’s crucial to conduct regular breast self-examinations. These self-exams can help you detect any changes in your breast tissue that may be worrisome. By identifying these changes early, you can promptly seek the necessary care and treatment at a nearby cancer care center. If you’re interested in learning more about a specific cancer treatment facility and how it can help you recover from cancer, you can read more about it here.
- To make sure that the breasts are healthy and normal.
The importance of self breast exams is to make sure your breasts are healthy and normal. Performing regular exams puts you in tune with your body, allowing you to notice any changes. The best time to do a self breast exam is a few days after your period ends, when hormone levels minimize lump detection confusion. Lying down and systematically moving your fingers in small circles over every part of each breast helps you remember its terrain. Report any new hardened knots, skin irritation, spontaneous nipple discharge, or pain to your doctor for further diagnostic screening.
If an abnormality is found during self-examination, your doctor may refer you for additional imaging tests. Trained technicians utilize mammograms, ultrasounds, or MRIs to capture detailed pictures of the inner breast tissue. These specialized images help detect early signs of potential concerns when they are still highly treatable. Hence, if you are exploring possible breast screening clinics, a quick search online using keywords like “imaging center near me‘ can help you locate facilities equipped with mammograms, ultrasound, or MRI services. Staying vigilant through regular self-checks and follow-up imaging when necessary offers the best chance for early intervention.
When to consult a doctor?
- Uncommon thick areas
- One breast is uncommonly lower than the other
- Bloody or sticky or discharge from nipples
- Changes in the skin of the nipples or breasts, such as wrinkle or lumpiness
- Unusual enlargement in the size of one breast
- New lump
We’ve all had that anxiety moment when we’re checking our breasts for a change in appearance. You know, the one where you’re already late for work, and you frantically search your shirt and bra in your closet to find an invisible lump.
But what if you went a step further and actually looked at it with a doctor’s eyes to make sure it’s not a life-threatening condition.
