Easy Steps to Early Breast Cancer Detection
Breast cancer affects many women each and every year. More and more women are learning that by taking some easy steps, you can detect this early and you are more than likely to beat it. The earlier you catch it the better your chances of survival. There are a few steps you can do at home and in your doctors office to make sure you catch the signs early. Knowing what to look for is only part of the early steps. Check these ideas and tips out and help yourself stay healthy and vibrant for a long time with our health tips.
Self Exams
Each month you should check your own breasts at home. You know your body better than anyone else and you can tell when changes are taking place. Be aware of what your breasts look and feel like in normal times. This will help you detect those smaller changes you might have been unaware of. Start with checking your breasts in the mirror. There are three positions you need to check them in:
- Stand with your arms by your side
- Stand with your arms above your head
- Stand up with your arms on your waist and bend over
These positions can help you get a good look at all areas of your breasts and to become more familiar with what they look like everyday. When checking these areas be sure to check for changes in coloration of your skin, changes in size or symmetry as well.
Feel For Change
Be sure to feel for changes in your breasts each month as well. Lie down on your bed with a pillow behind your shoulder. Then with three fingers make circular motions on each breast. Start from your collarbone and work down. Then go from your armpits to the center of your chest. Feel for lumps or bumps in each breast and those areas. If you happen to find a lump be sure not to panic right away. At least 80% of lumps are not cancerous and some women have more dense breast tissue than others.
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Get Your Mammograms Regularly
By having regular mammograms starting at the age of 40, you can help catch breast cancer early. Some women who may have a higher risk rate may need to start earlier than age 40 with these tests. Talk with doctor about your concerns and they can help guide you into how often you need them.
Extra Steps To Take
There are a few extra steps you can take to help reduce your risk of breast cancer. One is to keep yourself at a healthy weight. While it is difficult, the closer to a healthy weight range you are, the lower your risk of this type of cancer. Try to exercise at least 30 minutes a day for five days a week. This will help to keep your body healthy and reduce your risk as well. Try to limit the alcohol consumption you have as well.
While sometimes it is inevitable, catching breast cancer early is your best bet if you do develop the disease. Taking these steps outlined above can help you detect it early and prevent it from coming along. Be sure to talk with your doctor on how often you need to schedule your mammograms.