How do you know if you have breast cancer?
There are six vital signs that you should look out for in your body.
- You can start by looking for a thickening in your breast (lump) that is harder than the rest of your breast
- Watch out for a change in your breast size or shape
- Look for any change in the feel and colour of the skin of your breast
- Check if your nipple is overturned
- Look for any skin peeling or flaking in your nipple
- Check if the skin over your breast is discoloured or appears with an unusual colour.
Try and see a doctor if you observe any combination of these signs.
How do you prevent breast cancer?
Breast cancer prevention is all about reducing the risk. Having a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk, even in those with a high risk.
- A healthy lifestyle must include sensible drinking, e.g., drinking at a frequency of less than daily.
- If you are a smoker, then stop smoking. If you are a non-smoker, don’t start.
- Weight management is key to reducing the risk of breast cancer. Avoid becoming overweight or obese.
- Keep fit and maintain a stable exercise regime.
- If you are a nursing mum, then engage in breastfeeding your baby for as long as possible.
- Be careful about the length of hormone therapy and the dosage level if you are within the menopausal age.
- Reduce your exposure to radiation by engaging in scanning procedures only if necessary.