Lets Be Breast Buddies

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and at Performance Medicine, we want to make sure we’re spreading as much awareness as possible across Breast Cancer Awareness Month and every other month of the year. 

1 in 7 women and 1 in 500 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. That’s approximately 1000 diagnoses each year. 

The key to improving the breast cancer survival rates is early detection for early treatment. Performing a breast self exam every month is the best way to know your breasts well and be able to notice any changes that may occur. 

Cancer cells pictured

A self exam is looking and touching your breasts to familiarize yourself with the shape, size and feel of your breasts. What you’re looking out for are any lumps, changes in skin, sore spots or nipple discharge. A self exam should be performed:

  • In the shower
  • In front of a mirror
  • Lying down

This will help you see and feel the breasts in different positions and notice any changes. Around 40 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer are detected by feeling a lump on a self exam. 

The risk factor that cannot be changed for breast cancer are:

  • Age
  • Race
  • Family history
  • Personal medical history
  • Early menstruation
  • Late menopause

Please check the national breast cancer foundation website for more information on the risk factors on nbcf.org.au. 

If you are unsure or are concerned about the risk factors or your self examinations, please contact your GP.

Categories :