Breast Self-Examination and Mammography Breast self-examination and mammography are essential preventive measures for early detection of breast cancer. Self...
Breast Self-Examination and Mammography
Breast self-examination and mammography are essential preventive measures for early detection of breast cancer. Self-breast exams involve feeling the size, shape, and texture of your breasts and comparing them to the normal appearance. Regular mammograms involve X-rays of the breasts to look for abnormalities.
Breast self-examination:
Start with your hands behind your back.
Place one hand on your chest, with your thumb touching the lower edge of your rib cage.
Place your other hand on your back, with your thumb touching the lower edge of your rib cage.
Gently press down on each breast, comparing them to the normal feel.
Mammography:
Women aged 40 and above should have regular mammograms, typically every 1-2 years.
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breasts.
The X-ray is projected onto a screen, where it can be viewed by a healthcare professional.
Benefits of breast self-examination and mammogram:
Breast self-examination can help you identify any changes in the size or feel of your breasts.
Regular mammograms can help detect breast cancer at an early stage, when it is more treatable and more likely to be successful.
Risk factors for breast cancer:
Age (over 50)
Family history of breast cancer
Certain genetic conditions
Obesity
Alcohol consumption
Diabetes