Breast Cancer is one of the major killers among women.
Therefore, it is imperative for women to be in tune with their bodies for early detection in physical appearance or changes inside the breast(s).
A breast self examination (BSE) is one way in which women can basically keep 'tabs' on any changes that may occur.
This breast self examination is a screening method used to detect early breast cancer.
It involves the women scrutinizing and feeling for any changes such as a swelling or possible lump(s).
It is believed that this screening method was promoted as a means of detecting cancer at its earliest and most curable stage.
However, this does not negate the fact that this screening method should be substituted for mammogram breast screening by a health professional.
WHAT SHOULD I CHECK FOR? The main purpose of the breast self examination is to check for unusual changes.
In order to detect changes, it is important to know what is normal for your breasts.
When performing the breast self examination (BSE), look out for the following: • New lumps or thickenings; creases or folds on the breast(s) • Signs of the curves of the breast(s) becoming distorted or "out of shape" • Changes in shapes or sizes, for example, the nipple area • Evidence of fluids leaking from nipples • Differences between the breasts, for instance, things felt in one but absent in the other • Areas of redness WHEN SHOULD I CHECK? It is recommended that the breast self examination is done on t he same day of each month within the 7-10 grace period after the first day of your period.
If you are pregnant or during or after menopause, choose the same day of each month.
It is expected that women schedule an appointment for an examination by your nurse or doctor annually.
CONTROVERSY - BREAST SELF EXAMINATION & MEDICAL BENEFITS There is much controversy surrounding the issue that there is no evidence to support breast self examination yielding significant medical benefits.
To further substantiate this claim, studies have shown that there is no difference in mortality rates between women who perform this exercise monthly and those who do not.
However, there are others who believe this screening method assists in early detection, especially when the cancer is in it most curable stage, which in turn save lives.
Additionally, supporters of breast self examination maintain that this exercise is cheap and poses no health risks to women.
In fact, it empowers women gives them a feeling of being proactive in their own well-being.