#breastcancerawareness
SELF - EXÅM
Did you know that early detection of breast cancer can result in a 99% 5-year relative survival rate? Those are some great odds!
Your best chance of staying healthy is to be aware. Have a look at this easy, step-by-step guide to begin checking your breasts for abnormalities.
Step 1:
Relax! Take a deep breath. Stand in front of the mirror with your arms and begin visually examining your breasts.
Step 2:
Start by looking for redness, irritation, or any dimpling or thickening of the skin. Do you notice any changes to the appearance of your breasts?
Step 3: Is there any change in your nipples? Check for nipple inversion, nipple movement, or nipple discharge.
Step 4:
Raise both arms above your head and perform the same visual inspections. Does everything appear as it should?
Step 5: Now, you can begin physically inspecting your breasts for lumps. Check your left breast using your right hand and vice versa. Start with four fingers placed together and roll the pads of your fingers flatly across the surface of your breast.
Step 6: Vary the pressure! Use light pressure for the tissue beneath, medium pressure for the tissue in the middle, and heavy pressure for the tissue towards the back of your breast.
Step 7: Lie down and perform the same physical inspections, rolling your fingertips. Be sure to cover the entirety of your breast. And you’re done! It only took a few minutes and could potentially save your life.
If you noticed any concerning changes, do not panic. It may be completely noncancerous. Schedule an appointment with your health care provider immediately. A mammogram screening will offer you a lot more clarity on the situation.
Congratulations on taking your health into your hands. Go ahead and encourage your friends to do the same! #breastcancerawareness
