TV actress Hina Khan is currently battling stage three breast cancer. Every year, millions of women fall victim to this disease. However, there is a silver lining; breast cancer can often be fully cured if detected early. It’s crucial to raise awareness among women about this. Here are some methods by which individuals can self-detect signs of breast cancer.
Breast Cancer
Recently, popular TV actress Hina Khan shared through a social media post that she has been diagnosed with stage three Breast Cancer. Fortunately, her treatment has already begun. Breast cancer is a type of cancer that can be completely cured if detected early and treated promptly.
According to statistics, India sees approximately 13 to 14 lakh new cancer cases each year. Furthermore, one in every eight women is at risk of developing breast cancer. Previously, this cancer was commonly diagnosed in women over the age of 40, but now, even women in their 20s are becoming victims.
What Is Breast Cancer?
Our bodies consist of billions of cells, which form all our organs. These cells typically follow a specific pattern of growth and decay. However, in some cases, cells in a particular organ can start to grow abnormally. This abnormal growth can lead to the formation of a mass known as a tumor.
Tumors can be of two types: benign or malignant. While benign tumors are not harmful, malignant tumors represent forms of cancer, such as breast cancer, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
How To Check Yourself To Detect Breast Cancer
Here’s how to perform a self-examination for breast cancer detection:
- Timing for Women with Menstrual Cycles: Perform a self-examination on the seventh day after your period begins. During menstruation, breasts can feel tense, heavy, or lumpy. By the seventh day, the breasts typically return to their normal state, making it easier to detect any unusual changes.
- Advice for Postmenopausal Women: Women who have gone through menopause should choose a consistent date each month to conduct their self-examination. This regularity helps in keeping track of changes and detecting any anomalies early.
This Is The Right Way
Here is the correct method for conducting a self-examination for breast cancer:
- Stand in Front of a Mirror: Observe the shape and size of both breasts to check for any visible differences.
- Use Soap or Shampoo: Lubricate your hands with soap or shampoo and gently press your breasts. This can help in identifying any lumps.
- Press from the Sides to the Center: Start by pressing from the outer edges of each breast and move towards the center. Also, check the armpit areas by pressing there.
- Monitor Any Lumps: If you feel any lumps, keep a close watch on them over a few days. Lumps felt during periods may disappear after the menstrual cycle ends.
- Observe Lump Characteristics: Notice if the lump is growing or if it’s painful.
- Consult a Doctor: Even painless lumps can be dangerous. It’s important to consult a doctor if you notice persistent lumps.
