APART from non-melanoma skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women of all races, with a lifetime risk of 1 in 33 in South Africa, according to the 2009 National Cancer Registry.
Reduce Risk Through Regular Examinations:
Many breast lumps are harmless, but they should all be checked. It is important for women to do monthly breast self-examinations and to go for regular Clinical Breast Examinations.
Follow these easy steps during your self-examination:
1. In the mirror: In front of a mirror, check for any changes in the normal look and feel of your breasts, such as dimpling, size difference or nipple discharge
• Inspect four ways: arms at sides; arms overhead; firmly pressing hands on hips and bending forward
2. Lying down: Lie on your back with a pillow under your right shoulder and your right hand under your head • With the four fingers of your left hand make small circular motions, follow an up and down pattern over the entire breast area, under the arms and up to the shoulder bone, pressing firmly
• Repeat using right hand on left breast
3. While bathing: With your right arm raised, check your right breast with a soapy left hand and fingers flat using a circular motion.
- Repeat on the other side.
For more on Women & Cancer click HERE
