How to detect breast cancer (video)

In connection with the All-Ukrainian Day to Combat Breast Cancer, we decided not to leave this problem unattended. That's why we prepared an interview with Dr. Hilary Jones, who explained how women need to check their breasts regularly in order to detect cancer as early as possible.

Unfortunately, many of the fair sex do not pay enough attention to self-examination of the breast, which can prolong their life. 

The doctor last year described in detail the procedure, which should become one of the rituals for every girl or woman. Thanks to this, many of the fair sex were able to seek help from a doctor in time. 

The most important thing, according to Hilary Jones, – is to look at your chest and feel it, ask yourself the question: "Has something changed?". 

The specialist added: "Remember that breasts can change during menstruation, so it is best to check a week after they are over. And remember that the very "consistency" of the breasts in two women can be different – for some, the breasts feel soft to the touch balls, while others have pouches with lumps. Therefore, you need to know what kind of breast you have so that you can notice them in case of changes. For example, after menopause, the breast becomes softer, less firm and lumpy. " 

Chest should be performed as follows: 

1. In a standing position, place one hand on your thigh to relax the muscles on that part of your chest. 
2. Divide the breast tissue into four quadrants: one line passes between the nipples, the other – horizontally through the nipples, do not forget about the chest area rising to the collarbone and armpit. 
3. Using the pads of your index, middle and ring fingers, gradually and carefully check each quarter. 
4. It is very important to run your fingers all the way to the collarbone and feel the axillary lymph nodes. About 50% of cases of breast cancer occur in this quadrant, and an enlarged lymph node can be a sign of cancer development. Check only the nipple area and forget about the armpits and upper area – wrong. 
5. First, you need to lightly feel the surface, and then press a little harder. 
6. Each side should be examined and felt for several minutes, giving due attention to each quadrant in turn.  When you reach the nipple, you should also feel the area along the areola. 
7. It is also dangerous to ignore a rash or discharge such as milky, straw-yellow, or blood. In this case, you should immediately consult a doctor. 
8. It is also necessary to look at the general change in the shape or color of the breast – one breast may be asymmetrical compared to the other. 
9. Check the skin for wrinkles or dimples, there may be something hidden behind them as well. Such inspections should preferably be carried out monthly.

Read also: Mastectomy can save from genetically determined breast cancer

Of course, if during a breast self-examination you find any suspicious changes in the breast, it is better to immediately seek help from a specialist who will conduct a full examination and be able to accurately diagnose breast cancer or put you to rest. In no case should you be shy and delay a visit to the doctor – take care of yourself and your health, remember that your loved ones need you. 

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