October is a month filled with celebrations of pumpkins, funny costumes and festive fall activities but for some, it’s a reminder of something much more serious – it’s also Breast Cancer Awareness month. It’s a time when people, organizations and companies come together to bring awareness about the disease, raise funds for a much needed cure, celebrate survivors and remember those who have passed.
The biggest key in fighting the disease is awareness and early detection. We’ve put together some quick tips on how to self-check so you can be in the know.
How can you detect breast cancer early? The best form of detection is through yearly screenings by your doctor – mammograms can detect irregularities and lumps that can’t be seen or felt but you don’t have to wait for an entire year – you can get started at home by performing monthly regular self-breast exams.
A great place to check is in the shower or while you’re laying down. We’ve made a quick and easy chart for you to reference. Print it out, save the image, repost and share with your girlfriends and loved ones. Encourage them to perform the checks regularly and if it helps to get the job done, host a girl’s night with wine, snacks and a private room (a simple bathroom will do!).
How can we check breast cancer at home? When performing your self-exam, be sure to cover the entire breast area and armpit. Pressure should be light, medium and firm. Also squeeze the nipples to check for discharge and lumps.
What to Look For
- Any swelling of the breast (all or part)
- Skin irritation or dimpling (like the peel of an orange)
- Pain in the nipple or breast
- Nipples retracting/turning inwards
- Nipple or breast skin redness, scaliness, or thickening
- Discharge other than breast milk from the nipple
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