The importance of breast self examination

1. Breast Self-
Examination:
Why and how
you should do it

2. Early detection starts with a breast self-examination
Women must take all the necessary precautions to avoid developing breast cancer.
Research has shown that 70% of breast cancer lumps are detected during self-
examination. Experts do warn that self-examination should not replace clinical
examination.
Cancer is easier to treat during the early phases, before it spreads. One way to arrest the
situation early is to conduct a breast self-examination regularly. Doing this will alert
you to any unwanted changes such as lumps or unusual hardening and thickening of the
breast. Inspecting the breasts regularly will ensure that nothing is amiss as you will be
used to the shape and contours of your breasts.
Use your mirror to conduct a breast self-examination
Make sure that the lighting is good in your bedroom or wherever you are performing the
breast self-examination. Thereafter, you should stand in front of the mirror naked from
the waist up.
It is possible that the breasts will appear to differ in size and shape. If this is the case, do
not be anxious as this is often normal.
Keep your arms on your sides and check for any anomalies on the skin. Sores, dimples
and discoloration are tell-tale signs that something is amiss. Inspect your nipples
carefully to look for any untoward changes.
Now put your hands on your hips, pressing down so that your chest muscles tighten up.
By turning your body, you will be able to inspect the out side of your breasts as part of
the breast-self exam. To check the other angle of your breasts, bend forward and roll
your shoulders. You will then be able to detect any changes in contour and shape of your

3. breasts.
Inspecting the outer section of your breasts during the
breast self-examination
Place your hands behind your head and push down with your clasped hands. At the
same time, turn from left to right and vice versa to get another perspective during the
breast self-exam. Lift your breasts to check the area that joins your breast to your chest.
Note if there is any fluid being discharged from your nipples.
Soap and water makes the breast self-examination easier
Make your hands foamy with soap and water so that you are able to better detect any
changes in your breasts. Feel both breasts thoroughly to look for any bumps and lumps.
Use your left hand to inspect your right armpit and vice versa.
It is important that you cover ever area of your breasts in this way before giving yourself
a clean bill of health.
If you detect any changes during the breast self-exam, then get to a doctor right away.
Calcium, Iodine, Magnesium, Selenium and Zinc are powerful cancer-prevention
minerals. However, that is not all they offer. They also offer a range of other health
benefits that will improve your life today.
Self-examination and supplementation go hand in hand
Cancer prevention is a lifestyle choice and as with all other diseases better prevented
than cured. Therefore, make breast self-examination and supplementation part of your
lifestyle today.
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