Be Breast Aware: What Every Woman Should Know

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women — but the earlier it’s found, the better the chances of successful treatment.

October 3, 2024 | 107 Views

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What Exactly Is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer happens when certain cells in the breast start growing out of control. These cells can form a lump or mass, and in some cases, they might spread to other parts of the body. Most breast cancers start in the ducts (tubes that carry milk) or lobules (glands that make milk), but there are different types.

It can affect women — and in rare cases, men too — at different ages and life stages. That’s why regular screening and being aware of any changes in your body is so important.

Know the Risk Factors

While breast cancer can happen to anyone, certain factors might increase the risk. Here are a few to keep in mind:

📌 Being over 40

📌 Family history of breast cancer

📌 Early menstruation or late menopause

📌 No children or late pregnancy

📌 Lack of physical activity

📌 Post-menaupausal weight gain

📌 Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

📌 Frequent alcohol consumption

Still, many women develop breast cancer without any of these risk factors — which is why regular checks are so important.

Signs & Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

You know your body best. If something feels off, trust your gut. Here are some things to watch out for:

A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
A change in size, shape, or appearance of the breast
Dimpling or puckering of the skin
Redness, scaliness, or irritation of the skin or nipple
Nipple discharge (especially if it’s bloody or occurs without squeezing)

Not all lumps are cancer, but it’s best to get them checked just in case.

Screening: When and How Often?

Here’s a simple breakdown based on age:

In Your 20s–30s: Do monthly self-breast exams. See a doctor for a clinical breast exam every 3 years.
In Your 40s and Above: Schedule a mammogram every 1–2 years. Women withour doctor may recommend earlier or more frequent tests if you’re at higher risk.

High Risk Individuals: May need to start earlier and screen more frequently.

Self-checks are easy to do at home and only take a few minutes. You can do it in the shower, in front of the mirror, or while lying down. Just look and feel for any unusual changes.

Know Your Screening Options

There are a few types of breast cancer screening methods:

Mammogram – This is the most common and effective screening tool. It uses low-dose X-rays to detect lumps or abnormalities before they can be felt.
Ultrasound – Often used alongside mammograms, especially for women with dense breast tissue.
MRI – Typically recommended for those with a higher risk of breast cancer (e.g., family history or genetic mutation like BRCA1/2).

📌 Tip: Ask your doctor which screening is best based on your age, risk factors, and health history.

What to Expect During the Screening

You’ll be asked to undress from the waist up and wear a gown.
During a mammogram, your breast will be placed on a flat surface and gently compressed — it may be slightly uncomfortable but only lasts a few seconds.
The procedure is quick, usually taking 20–30 minutes.

Wear a two-piece outfit to make things easier. Avoid lotions or deodorants before the exam — they can interfere with imaging.

Can Breast Cancer Be Prevented?

There’s no guaranteed way to prevent breast cancer, but healthy habits can reduce your risk:

Maintain a healthy weight
Exercise regularly
Eat a balanced diet
Limit alcohol
Don’t smoke
Breastfeed, if possible
Know your family history

A Reminder From Us

Your health matters. Breast cancer awareness isn’t just for October — it’s something we should keep talking about all year round. Whether you’re 25 or 55, a quick self-check or a screening appointment could make all the difference.

Scheduled a Regular Check-Ups and Screenings

Early detection is very crucial in breast cancer prevention as early detection and treatment can greatly increase the patient’s chance of recovery. Schedule regular health check-ups and consult your healthcare provider for guidance on appropriate screenings. Mammograms are still valuable, and advancements in technology have made them more efficient. Breast cancer screening examinations that can be performed other than mammograms include Breast Self-Examination (BSE), and BRCA genetic testing. Discuss the timing and frequency of screenings with your healthcare team based on your individual risk factors and age.

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