Introduction

In honour of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, medical experts are urging early detection. Breast cancer is thought to impact one in every 27 South African women. The most common disease in women, breast cancer, is becoming more often identified in people under 40. The necessity for early detection and awareness is highlighted by this trend, which is consistent with global patterns whereby younger women are diagnosed with more aggressive types of the illness.

Origins

The American Cancer Society and AstraZeneca collaborated in 1985 to create Breast Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting early detection methods for breast cancer—the pink ribbon, first distributed during the Susan G. Komen Foundation’s run, symbolised awareness. In 1992, Estée Lauder and Self Magazine distributed millions of pink ribbons at makeup counters, establishing the ribbon as the emblem of breast cancer awareness. Major corporations began supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month through cause-marketing campaigns. Products branded with the pink ribbon started flooding the market, with proceeds often going to breast cancer research and support groups.

Why Perform Breast Self-Exam

Self-exams help you notice changes in your breast tissue early, even before symptoms like pain or discomfort appear. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the better the chances of successful treatment. Performing regular self-exams helps identify unusual changes in breasts, enhancing awareness and doing so in the comfort of home. Also, although breast cancer is much less common in men, it does occur. Men should also perform self-exams to check for lumps or changes, especially if they have a family history of breast cancer.

How to Check Whether in the Shower, Mirror, or Lying Down

When taking a shower, massage your fingers in a circular motion over your whole breast, from the outside to the inside, including the area under your arms. Look for any changes in texture, thickness, or lumps. Examine your breasts in the mirror for uniformly shaped breasts, avoiding swelling or deformation. Check for dimpling, wrinkles, sagging, and changes in nipples, ensuring they are shaped uniformly without noticeable swelling or deformation. To examine your left breast, press your fingers over it with your right hand, making circular motions from the armpit to the chest and collarbone to the ribs. Repeat the process on the left breast, giving each nipple a light squeeze to detect any discharge, which may be milky, bloody, or watery.

If You Do Find a Lump

A doctor may recommend additional tests, such as an ultrasound, to investigate unusual breast changes during self-exams. These tests can help identify benign, non-cancerous changes, ensuring a thorough evaluation and diagnosis. Don’t panic! Breast health is crucial, and early detection is essential. By making self-exams a monthly habit, women and men can detect changes early and seek medical advice when necessary. This proactive approach empowers both men and women, ensuring successful treatment and a better chance for overall health.

Conclusion

Empowerment through awareness. Regular self-checks are a vital practice in safeguarding breast health. While they are not a substitute for professional screenings, they empower individuals to notice changes early and seek timely medical advice. By making self-examination a consistent habit, we take an active role in prevention, early detection, and ultimately, better outcomes in the fight against breast cancer.

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