Preventing Breast Cancer With Daily Examination
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK. According to Cancer Research UKmore than 45,500 women were diagnosed with it in 2005 and around 300 men are diagnosed each year.
Your breasts continue to change in size and shape throughout your life, particularly around menstruation and the menopause. Regular self-examinations are vital for spotting any abnormal changes yet most of us don’t do them very often and when we do, we aren’t really sure what we’re supposed to be looking for. Breasts often feel lumpy, particularly during menstruation so how do you distinguish between temporary, hormonal lumps and bumps and something more serious?
When To Check Your Breasts
You need to check your breasts from puberty until old age. Experts suggest making a routine of it so it becomes second nature. Dr Miriam Stoppard suggests doing it regularly to get thoroughly acquainted with how your breasts change in appearance and texture throughout your cycle. Once you are familiar check them once a month, after your period to give your hormones time to settle. Hormone changes can make them feel lumpy, tender and sore.
