Breast Cancer starts when cells in the breast multiply uncontrollably and form a tumor. The tumor usually presents a lump but may also present as a change in the breast.
RISK FACTORS
Being female
Increasing age – over 40
A personal history of breast cancer
Having a blood relative with breast cancer
Getting your first menstrual period before the age of 12
Giving birth for the first time after age of 30
Being overweight or obese
Use of hormone replacement therapy
BREAST CANCER IS THE MOST COMMON CANCER IN WOMEN.
REDUCING THE CANCER RISK
Do monthly breast self-examinations
Go for regular screening
Symptom-free women over the age of 40 should go for regular mammograms.
Be very aware of any sudden changes in your breasts eg, lumps, skin, or nipple changes or disorders.
Limit alcohol intake
Control your weight
Be physically active
HOW TO DO A SELF-EXAMINATION | 3 EASY STEPS
IN THE MIRROR
In front of the mirror, check for any changes in the normal look and feel of your breasts, such as dimpling, size difference or nipple discharge.
Inspect in the following 4 ways:
- Arms at sides
- Arms overhead
- Firmly pressing hands on hips and;
- Bending forward
LYING DOWN
Lie on your back with a pillow under your right shoulder and your right hand under your head. With the three middle fingers of your left hand, make small circular motions, follow an up and downward pattern over the entire breast area, under the arms and up to the shoulder bone, pressing firmly. Repeat using right hand on left breast.
WHILE STANDING
With your right arm raised, check your right breast with your left hand and fingers using the method described under “LYING DOWN”. Repeat on the other side.
MYTH
- I am too young to get breast cancer
- Men can’t get breast cancer
- Only women with a family history of breast cancer are at risk
- I have never had children, so I can’t get breast cancer
- My breast are too small to get breast cancer
FACT
- Many women who are under the age of 40 are diagnosed with breast cancer
- 1 in 992 men have a lifetime risk of breast cancer
- All women are at risk, but family history increases the risk
- Woman who have never had children, or only had them after 30, have an increased risk of breast cancer
- Size does not matter
IF YOU NOTICE ANY CHANGE TO YOUR BREAST, PLEASE GO TO YOUR DOCTOR OF CLINIC FOR ASSESSMENT.
THE MIRACLE OF LIFE – by Breast Cancer Survivor
CANCER CANNOT SILENCE ETERNAL LIFE
CANCER CANNOT LESSEN JOY
IT CANNOT TAKE AWAY LIFE’S EXPERIENCE AND WISDOM GAINED
IT CANNOT STEAL MEMORIES OF A LIFE LIVED TO THE FULLEST
IT CANNOT SILENCE LOVE
OR LAUGHTER
OR REDUCE COURAGE
IT CANNOT FORCE YOU TO LOSE HOPE
IT CANNOT BREAK PURPOSE
IT CANNOT TAKE AWAY THE MIRACLE OF LIFE
