Breast examination are the first step to prevent Breast cancer
Breast cancer is a dangerous disease which may lead to death if untreated early enough. That is why self-examination is extremely important for effective treatment and breast cancer prevention. The article describes techniques of breast examination.
All you need is a mirror and some time to check if your breasts don't show signs of cancer. Breast examination should be performed at least once a month, always on the same day of your menstruation cycle.
Techniques of breast examination
Step 1
Stand in front of the mirror, raise your hands up and watch the breasts precisely. Pay attention to the shape, skin structure of your breasts. Check if they are symmetrical, reddened, look at the nipples and all pigmented moles. A good lighting is crucial to examine your body closely. Do you have an inverted nipple, is it bilateral or unilateral?
Step 2
Stand in front of the mirror, put your hands on the hips and look at the breasts in that position.
Step 3
Grab the nipple in between the two fingers and press it gently. Check if there is no liquid leaking from the inside.
Step 4
Lie down on your back, start moving your hand around breast from the outside to the inside. Preferably, use the second, third and fourth fingers. Press the breast gently but firmly moving in small circles until you reach the nipples. Check also below the armpit and around the collar bone.
What is really important is the fact that breasts should be examined systematically. Once you do it frequently, you have a bigger chance to detect any lumps that appear in your breasts. It is also important to know that 50% of breast tissue is found in the upper outer part of the breast and only 20% is found under the nipple.
The American Cancer Society recommends that you should begin doing a routine self breast examination at the age of 20. They should be performed once a month.
Between the ages of 20 and 40 you should also be having a clinical breast exam at least once every three years whilst still performing an SBE each month.
Over the age of 40, as well as doing an SBE monthly, you should also be having an annual clinical breast exam and mammogram as this age group is the most susceptible to breast cancer.
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