Breast cancer is a global health concern, and it is one of the most common cancers among women in Malaysia. Early identification is critical for increasing survival rates and treatment outcomes. Regular breast self-exams are an important and powerful technique to detect breast cancer early. In this post, we’ll look at why breast self-exams are important and how to do them correctly.
Why Are Breast Self-Exams Important?
Breast self-examinations are a simple yet efficient approach for women to become acquainted with their bodies and discover any abnormal changes in their breasts. Here’s why they’re so crucial:
Early detection helps save lives: The earlier breast cancer is identified, the more likely it will be effectively treated. Self-exams can aid in the detection of cancer in its early stages, when it is most curable.
Know Your usual: By performing regular self-exams, you can become acquainted with the usual appearance and feel of your breasts. This information makes it easy to detect any irregularities.
Empowerment: Self-examinations give you control over your health. You can keep an eye on your breasts and respond quickly if you notice any changes.
How to Conduct a Breast Self-Examination
A breast self-exam is simple and may be done in the comfort of your own home. Here’s a step-by-step procedure:
Step 1: Get Ready
- Place your hands at your sides in front of a mirror.
- Examine your breasts as they are in their natural form. Keep an eye out for any changes in size, shape, or contour.
Step 2: Examine
- Raise your arms and gaze in the mirror for the same changes.
- Examine your skin for dimpling, puckering, or any other strange skin changes.
Step 3: Lying Down Examination
- Place a cushion under your right shoulder and lie down on your back.
- Feel your right breast with your left hand.
- In a circular motion, use the pads of your fingertips. Begin on the exterior and work your way in.
- Make sure to cover the entire breast and armpit area.
- Repeat the process with your right hand on your left breast.
Step 4: Standing or sitting examination
- Raise your right arm in the air.
- Examine your right breast in the same circular manner with your left hand.
- Rep the procedure with your left breast.
Step 5: Examine for Discharge
Squeeze each nipple gently to check for any abnormal discharge. If you discover any of the following during your self-examination, get medical attention immediately:
- A breast or armpit bulge or thickening.
- Breast size, shape, or contour changes.
- Pain or soreness that is not explained.
- Changes in the skin, such as redness, dimpling, or puckering.
- Changes in the nipple, such as secretion, inversion, or scaling.
Take Action Right Now!
The best defence against breast cancer is early detection. Every woman is encouraged to undertake regular breast self-exams. If you have any questions or see any changes during your self-exam, please contact a healthcare professional.
At Awam Clinic, we are committed to the health and well-being of women. Our knowledgeable healthcare staff is available to help you along your breast health journey. We have lady doctor at Awam Clinic that can assist you with self-exams, breast cancer screenings, and other healthcare services.
For appointments or inquiries, contact Awam Clinic at https://awamclinic.com/book-the-best-treatment-with-awam-clinic-now/
