Breast self-exam
A breast self-exam is a checkup that a person performs to look for changes or abnormalities in the breast tissue. It does NOT replace mammography over 40 years of age or any medical examination, it is a complement to them.
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Did you know?
3 out of 10 women with breast cancer are under 40 years of age. The recovery rate when detecting cancer early is around 95%. The main risk factor is being a woman, 99% of breast cancer cases occur in women.
But I'm still young
Being under 40 you have a very dense breast. For this reason, you do not get mammograms as a self-care method. The only way you have to detect any anomaly is through periodic touch. If you feel a lump, do not be alarmed and consult a specialist, they are usually benign, in any case, you will appreciate having felt it.
When should I self-examine?
Once a month. The exact date varies according to each woman's cycle. It is recommended to do it when the hormones are the least hormonally disturbed, approximately day 7 in a 28-day cycle. However, if you are a woman who no longer menstruates, you can set the day that suits you and repeat it monthly.
How is the self-exam done?
Beyond a specific technique, you must palpate the area of the breast, armpit and neck. Also palpate in different directions and pressure levels (Superficial, intermediate and deep pressure). The important thing is that you do it periodically once a month and palpating your entire breast.
Characteristics of an anomaly
A tumor can be any size or shape, it is usually rock hard and fixed, that is, it does not move when you run your fingers. If you imagine a lemon, a tumor would be like a stone. It should be noted that a tumor is not the only symptom of breast cancer, but it is the most common. NOTE: Most of the palpable lumps are benign, but in any case it is better to consult a specialist to rule out a tumor.
What to do in case of detecting an anomaly?
If you feel an abnormality that is not associated with a period of hormonal changes and that remains with the passing of days. You should consult a specialist (midwife, gynecologist or breast specialist). In this link you can understand well what to do in Chile.
Fundación Care
La Fundación tiene el compromiso de informar y dar esperanza, para que los pacientes y sus familias tengan la certeza y tranquilidad de que van por el camino correcto.
Ofrece dos servicios gratuitos para acompañar y asistir a personas que han recibido un diagnóstico de cáncer. Revísalos aquí.
Nos complace anunciar nuestra alianza con la Fundación Care. Juntos, fortaleceremos nuestros esfuerzos no solo en prevención y detección temprana, sino también en apoyar a quienes identifiquen cualquier anomalía.Mark on your calendar
The most important thing about self-examination is that it be done month by month. For women who have annual mammograms, they should perform the self-exam with the same frequency.
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