Breast Cancer Risks, Symptoms, Self-Examination: Your Complete Guide

Hina Khan has been diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. While the actor is undergoing treatment for it, the revelation has triggered a major conversation about how to prevent and detect breast cancer, which is the most common cancer among women. 

Statistics show one woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, in India, every 4 minutes.

Dr Sudeshna Ray, Medical Director at Gytree says,"Any lump you feel in your breast which is unusual to you, which doesn't agree with your general pattern of breast tissue, please get it evaluated by your doctor immediately."

Checking for breast cancer at home involves being aware of changes in your breasts and performing regular self-examinations. Here are some steps and methods to consider:

1. Breast Self-Examination (BSE)

Perform a monthly breast self-exam to familiarize yourself with the normal look and feel of your breasts, so you can identify any changes. Here's how to do it:

Visual Examination:

• Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and arms on your hips.
• Look for changes in the size, shape, and colour of your breasts.
• Check for any visible distortions or swelling.
• Look for dimpling, puckering, or changes in the nipple (such as inversion or discharge).

Physical Examination (Standing or Sitting):

• Raise your arms and look for the same changes.
• While in the shower, use a soapy hand to make the exam easier.
• Use the pads of your fingers to feel your entire breast from top to bottom, side to side, from your collarbone to the top of your abdomen, and from your armpit to your cleavage.

Physical Examination (Lying Down):

• Lie down with a pillow under your right shoulder and your right arm behind your head.
• Use your left hand to examine your right breast with small circular motions, applying light, medium, and firm pressure.
• Follow a pattern to ensure you cover the entire breast area. You can use a vertical strip pattern or a circular pattern starting from the nipple and moving outward.
• Repeat the process on the left breast.

2. Awareness of Symptoms

Be aware of the symptoms of breast cancer, which can include:

• A lump or thickening in or near the breast or underarm area.
• Changes in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast.
• Skin changes on the breast, such as redness, dimpling, or puckering.
• Nipple changes, including pain, discharge, or inversion.
• Persistent breast pain that is not related to your menstrual cycle.

3. Risk Factors and History

• Be aware of your family history of breast cancer. If you have close relatives who have had breast cancer, you may be at a higher risk.
• Consider genetic testing if you have a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer.

4. Consult a practitioner to understand 

• There are mobile platforms focussed on preventative health such as Gytree designed to guide you through a breast self-exam and help you track any changes or symptoms over time. 
• Book an appointment here 
• Some provide reminders for monthly self-exams and information on what to look for.

5. Consult Healthcare Providers

• If you notice any changes or abnormalities during your self-exam, consult a healthcare provider promptly. Here's a look to find the right experts