Why do a Breast Self Examination?
Breast self examination has been universally accepted by the experts as a very simple, significant and effective method of early detection of Breast cancer. As with all other types of cancer early detection and a high index of suspicion are the keys to combating the menace of cancer.

Remember It’s Simple; It’s Effective

When to do a Breast Self Examination?

• Breast Self Examination is done monthly.
• The time is 7-10 days from the expected start of the first day of your next period.
• It is to be done on the same day even when you are not menstruating.

How to Do it?
Use the left hand for the right breast and right and for the left. Apply firm pressure and make small circles as you go back or forth (up or down, circular or spoke style) in a pattern covering all the breast area including the nipple.

• Stand in front of a mirror and look at each breast separately. Note the size, shape, colour, contour and direction of your breasts and nipples. Has there been any change in size? Has any nipple become turned in or is there any discharge or any change in the texture of the skin?

• Raise your arms over your head and look at your breasts, as you turn slowly from side to side. Any swellling or puckering of the skin?
  
  
  
  
  
  
• Lean forward and examine each breast for change in outline or dimpling of the skin.
  
  
  
  
  
  
• Now, lying down, using the pads of your three middle fingertips feel for any lumps or bumpy areas.
  
  
  
  
  
  
• Extend the examination to the breast tissue in the underarm. Keep moving your hand across the nipple till you feel you have felt all parts of the breast.
  
  
  
  
  
• Feel for lumps under and along the top of the collar bone. Change your hand and repeat BSE on the opposite breast.
  
  
  
  

What are the warning signs of Breast cancer?

• Lump or thickening (breast, underarm)
• Dimpling or puckering of the skin.
• Bloody or spontaneous discharge from nipple.
• A sore on the breast that does not heal.
• Unusual pain Itch or rash, especially in nipple area.
• Retracted nipple(s).

A note of caution is waranted here. Only 1 out of 10 of any breast lumps that are found to merit investigation for cancer may prove malignant. Therefore presence of a breast lump should not press panic buttons at the outset.

Suggested Reading -
Breast Self Examination- The technique to do it.

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