Sarah, the Duchess of York, has recently undergone a successful operation to treat breast cancer. This diagnosis was made after a routine mammogram, highlighting the importance of regular screenings. Breast cancer is a prevalent disease in the UK, affecting approximately 55,000 women and 370 men each year. Detecting breast cancer early is crucial, as timely treatment significantly reduces the associated risks.
Despite continuous efforts by cancer charities, over a third of women in the UK do not regularly examine their breasts for potential signs of cancer. To address this, MailOnline has provided a guide on how to check your breasts and recognize symptoms of breast cancer. Checking your breasts should be integrated into your monthly routine so that any unusual changes can be promptly noticed.
There are various methods to check your breasts, but a popular technique involves using the pads of your fingers. By rubbing and feeling from top to bottom, in semi-circles, and in a circular motion around your breast tissue, you can identify abnormalities. It is also important to check the breast tissue up to your collarbone and underneath your armpit because breast tissue extends beyond the breasts themselves.
In addition to self-examinations, women between the ages of 50 and 70 should attend routine breast cancer screenings. Symptoms to be aware of include the presence of lumps or swellings, changes in breast shape and size, changes in skin color, discharge from the nipple, and rashes or crusting around the nipple.
A lump or swelling in the breast, upper armpit, or chest is often the first noticeable symptom of breast cancer. It’s important to be aware of what is normal for you, as some women may experience tender and lumpy breasts during certain times of the month. Visible changes to the shape and size of the breasts are also significant and should be monitored closely.
Changes in the skin, such as puckering or dimpling, can be indications of breast cancer. This may resemble the texture of orange peel and can be associated with inflammatory breast cancer. A change in skin color and redness should also be monitored.
Pain or discomfort in one breast that persists should not be ignored. Additionally, changes in nipple position, such as being pulled in or pointing in a different direction, should be investigated. Rashes, crusting, and discharge from the nipples, especially if blood-stained, should be promptly addressed with a healthcare professional.
Breast cancer is a common global disease, affecting more than two million women annually. It accounts for over 55,000 new cases in the UK and claims the lives of 11,500 women each year. Diagnosis and treatment depend on various factors, including the stage and grade of cancer. Early detection and prompt treatment significantly improve outcomes.
The exact cause of breast cancer remains unclear, but certain risk factors, like genetics, can increase susceptibility. The first symptom of breast cancer is typically a painless lump, although most lumps are benign. The disease often spreads to the lymph nodes in the armpit. Diagnosis involves assessments by doctors and various tests like mammography and biopsies.
Treatment options for breast cancer may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and targeted drug therapy. The specific treatment plan depends on individual circumstances and is determined by healthcare professionals.
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