Breast Cancer Awareness

Breast cancer is a complex disease, with many different forms and treatments. Everyday we are finding out more about cancer - how to detect it early, what treatments are available and most importantly, how to cure it. As in all cases, the earlier a cancer is found the more chance there is of a complete recovery.

- When and how should I do my breast check?
- What else may cause lumps or pain in the breast?
- Am I at risk of developing breast cancer?
- Is there anything I can do to reduce my risk of breast cancer?

 

When and how should I do my breast check?

Breast self-awareness is important, by examining your breasts regularly; you will become familiar with what is normal for your body and will be able to recognize changes promptly. Breast size and shape vary considerably from woman to woman and so do nipple size and shape. Remember, there are many factors that may make them feel different at certain times of the month e.g. your menstrual cycle, just before a period breasts are known to get a little tender and feel lumpy.

You should check your breasts monthly from the age of 18. Many womens’ breasts change before their period. They may feel lumpy or tender and then feel soft immediately afterwards, so this is a good time to check your breasts. After the menopause breasts tend to feel soft and less lumpy.

Once familiar with your breasts you will soon spot any changes.

IN THE SHOWER / BATH: Fingers slide easier over wet skin. Raise your left arm and with the flat side of your hand move gently over each breast in a circular motion. Check for any lump, hard knot or thickening. Do not squeeze or prod your breasts. It is also important that you feel around your collarbone and armpit for any swellings or lumps.

IN FRONT OF A MIRROR: Put your hands on your hips and then press inwards until the chest muscles tighten. This will make any changes more prominent. Now, put your hands on your head and look for dimples or bulges, particularly underneath your breast. Dimples that are symmetrical in each breast are usually harmless. Put your arm over your head and look again for any changes. Look carefully at your breasts from every angle from the side, underneath and leaning forward.

LYING DOWN: Place a pillow under your left shoulder and put your left arm above your head. Examine your breast in a circular motion. Look for any change in nipple direction, puckering, swelling of the dark skin surrounding the nipple or orange peel skin. Repeat on right side. Also squeeze each nipple gently to check for any discharge.

There are a few other signs you should be aware of and look out for when doing your self-awareness - check routine:

- A change in the shape or size of the breast - it may be that one breast has become noticeably larger or lower.
- The nipple turns in - it becomes inverted.
- The nipple changes position or shape.
- A swelling or lump in your armpit.
- A blood-stained discharge - this a very rare symptom.
- A rash on a nipple or surrounding area (very rare).
- Veins which stand out more than usual.
- Any pain in your breast that you have not experienced before.

Remember, that if there is any change in your breast from what is normal for you, you should make an appointment to discuss your concerns with your doctor.

 

What else may cause lumps or pain in the breast?

Although breast problems can sometimes be painful, they can usually be treated easily and rapidly. Breast pain, also known as mastalgia, is a common problem that most women experience at some point in their life. This usually happens before their period and can be helped by a prescription, available from your doctor. Nine out of ten breast lumps are not caused by cancer and will prove to be benign.

There are two types of lumps common in women:-

Cysts - these are fluid filled lumps, which may vary in size. They can be removed if they are painful, but they usually shrink without the need of treatment.

Fibro-adenomas - these are firm painless lumps, made up of fibrous and glandular tissue. These lumps are easy to remove surgically if they are causing discomfort.

 

Am I at risk of developing breast cancer?

It is estimated that 1 in 10 women in the UK will develop breast cancer during her lifetime. Breast cancer can occur at any age, but approximately 90% of women with breast cancer are over 45. Breast cancer is very rare in women under the age of 40. Breast cancer is a possibility for all of us, including men. Every year, 200 men are diagnosed with breast cancer, so men to should report any breast changes to their doctor.

Women may be at increased risk of breast cancer if two or more close relatives have suffered. The level of risk is increased if their mother or sister had the disease before the age of 50.

Studies suggest that the contraceptive pill and H.R.T. may cause a small increase in women developing breast cancer, this risk is reduced when the use of these hormones stop.

Women who start their periods early or those who have a late menopause also tend to have an increased risk of breast cancer.

 

Is there anything I can do to reduce my risk of breast cancer?

A general recommendation for a healthier lifestyle is regular exercise and sticking to a healthy, well balanced diet. Cut down on you alcohol intake, if you do like to have a drink - try to keep within the recommended levels. For women this is two to three units daily and for men 3 to 4 units daily. This amount of alcohol shouldn’t put your health at risk.

The main way of reducing your risk of all cancers and diseases is to stop smoking. No matter what your age, using the recommended self-awareness routine (above) is a process you can use regularly.

 

If you prefer to talk to someone directly please phone us on +44 (0)870 199 5287 and our customer service people will be happy to help.