Breast Cancer Awareness

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and is the perfect opportunity for women to take charge of their health and be aware of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer.

Understanding the Signs
Initially when breast cancer starts it may go undetected and usually is too small to feel. But there are a few tell-tale signs to look for:

  • A lump in your underarm area or breast.
  • A subtle change in color, size, or shape of your breast.
  • A feeling on the breast that is tender or sore to touch.
  • Skin irritation specifically in the breast area such as flakiness, chafing, redness or inflammation.

How to do a Breast Self-Examination (BOX-OUT)

According to experts, a breast self-exam should be done once a month and approximately one week after the menstrual period starts.

The Steps:

  • Place a pillow under your right shoulder as you lay flat on your back.
  • With your three middle fingers on your left hand, check your right breast.
  • Press this area using light, medium, and firm pressure going in a circle movement without lifting your fingers off the skin.
  • Feel carefully for any changes in your breast, all the way above and below your collarbone and in your armpit.
  • Repeat these steps on your left breast with your right hand.