It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Do you ‘know your normal’?
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This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, people are encouraged to be breast aware, perform regular self-checks and understand what is normal for them so they can identify any changes early.
While mammograms remain the most effective way to detect breast cancer early, becoming familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel can help you notice changes and seek advice sooner.
Jodie Kirkness from BreastScreen ACT says that although some people might feel uncomfortable or embarrassed about checking their breasts, it’s a simple habit that can make a real difference.
“At the end of the day, you’re doing it for your own health,” Jodie says. “Breasts are a normal part of our bodies. It’s really important that we try and make this topic part of everyday conversations.”
Jodie recommends checking your breasts once a month using three simple steps:
- Feel for changes while standing up
- Look for visual changes in front of a mirror
- Feel for changes while lying down
It’s also best to avoid doing self-checks when you’re menstruating, as breasts can be more tender at this time.
“It sounds like a lot of steps, but it doesn’t take long at all and it’s good for your peace of mind,” Jodie says.
Feel for changes standing up
Jodie recommends choosing the same time each month to perform a breast check. You can lather up with some soap in the shower and then, using the pads of your index, middle and ring fingers, move around your breasts to check for any unusual changes.
“I like to think of my breast as having four quarters. Check all the way around and also near the nipples as well. Importantly, use your other hand to go up under your armpit and into your lymph nodes.”
Pay attention to:
- New lumps or thickened areas
- Changes in the shape or size of your breasts
- Changes in texture
- Dimpling of the skin
- Nipple inversion
- Unusual discharge
Jodie Kirkness, BreastScreen ACT
Look for visible changes in the mirror
After your shower, stand in front of the mirror and look at your breasts from the front.
“This helps us notice any changes in shape or size,” Jodie says.
If you haven’t already completed the finger-pad check in the shower, stand in front of a mirror and use the same technique to examine both breasts for any changes that are not normal for you.
“Once you’ve done that, you want to look at yourself in the mirror from side on to see if there are any visible changes in shape or appearance, then switch to the other side.”
Feel for changes while lying down
As you’re getting ready for bed, repeat your breast check while lying down.
“This is because our breasts spread differently when we’re lying down,” Jodie says.
Using the same finger-pad technique, feel around each breast and into the armpit area, paying attention to anything that feels different from normal.
What to do if you do notice a change
If you do notice any unusual changes in your breasts, contact your GP as soon as possible. They can perform a clinical assessment and arrange the most appropriate tests.
Jodie also encourages people to trust their instincts and advocate for their health.
“If you do see your GP and you’re still concerned about a change, don’t hesitate to seek further advice or discuss your concerns again. Advocating for your health is important.”
When to get a mammogram
While being breast aware is important, it does not replace regular screening mammograms, which remain the most effective method of detecting breast cancer early.
Screening mammograms are for people who do not have any breast symptoms or changes. Jodie says all eligible people should make breast screening a regular part of their health care.
Eligible Canberrans aged 50 – 74 years should have a screening mammogram every two years.
Free screening is also available for participants from 40 – 49 years and over 74 years.
Screening mammograms are free, take only a short time, and can detect breast cancer before symptoms appear.
More information is available on the BreastScreen ACT website.
