It's simple to be breast aware just follow the simple steps of touch, look and check.
A subject that you may not want to think about, but being aware of how your breasts feel and look is important in diagnosing breast cancer.
As simple as TLC:
- Touch your breasts - can you feel anything unusual?
- Look for changes - is there a change in shape or texture in one or both of your breasts
- Check your breasts regularly - no one knows your body better than you, if changes occur check with your doctor.
Nine times out of 10 lumps you find will not be cancerous, but it's important to get them checked just in case. As women, your bodies are constantly changing, even throughout your monthly cycles, so it's important to know what is normal for you.
Changes you may notice:
- Lumps - you may find these in your upper breast, chest or armpit
- Thickening of the breast tissue
- Unusual pain in the breast or armpit
- Change is size or shape of one or both breasts
- Skin texture may change - become more rough, or a rash may or discolouration may occur
- Direction of nipple may change - become inverted when previously wasn't
- Discharge from the nipples
98% of women don't know the five most common signs and symptoms of breast cancer. Make sure you don't forget.
Get a complete TLC guide on the Breakthrough Breast Cancer website