by Karen Alexander, Sunshima guest blog writer
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and while breast screening was suspended in March 2020 to limit the spread of Covid-19 and allow the NHS to focus on dealing with the pandemic, breast screening has now resumed. Breast Cancer Now estimates that during this hiatus around 986,000 women have missed having their mammogram. And since there is now a backlog as well as extra Covid safety measures, there are delays in invitations beings sent out and in follow up appointments. Being Breast Aware is now even more important as treatment is most effective the earlier breast cancer is detected. But what does it mean to be Breast Aware?
Know Your Breasts
Our breasts are all different and come in a variety of shapes, sizes and densities. One breast can even be larger than the other. Breasts change during the month and over time with some women experiencing tender and lumpy breasts especially near the armpit during their periods and after the menopause they feel softer, less firm and not as lumpy. Get to know your breasts so you are aware how they look and how they feel. Taking a few minutes to check your breasts regularly will help you know what is normal and make it easier to spot any changes.
Check Your Breasts
While looking at your breasts, feel each breast and armpit, and up to your collarbone. You may find it easier to do this in the shower or bath, while your skin is slippery and wet. You can also look at your breasts in the mirror with your arms by your side and with them raised. And if you like how-to videos this shows how you can examine your breasts. Then just set a monthly reminder on your phone like my “Boobie Time” and spread the love by sending reminders to your female family members and close girlfriends.
Breast Changes to Notice
- A lump or swelling in the breast, upper chest or armpit that was not there before. It can be moving or fixed and you might feel it but not be able to see it
- A change in the size, outline or shape of the breast
- A change in how the breast looks or feels such as puckering, dimpling or redness
- Any change in nipple direction or a discharge of fluid from either nipple
- A rash, crusting, scaly or itchy skin or redness on or around the nipple
- Any pain or discomfort in one breast especially if it is new and does not go away
Always, Always Speak to Your GP
Although most breast changes are not serious and 9 out of 10 breast lumps are harmless, if you are concerned about a change or you find a lump please speak to your doctor. Do not ignore it or delay because “you’re busy and it’s probably nothing”. Breast cancer caught early is treatable.
In Short: Show Yourself Some TLC
Breast Cancer Now says checking your breasts is as easy as TLC
Touch your breasts: can you feel anything new or unusual?
Look for changes: does anything look different to you?
Check any new or unusual changes with a GP