How to self-check for symptoms of breast cancer
ARE YOU CONFIDENT CHECKING YOUR BREASTS? DR JONTY JOINED US TO OFFER SOME HELPFUL ADVICE
In Breast Cancer Awareness month and on today's show our resident doctor debunked some common myths about breast cancer, answered your questions and showed us how to do a self-breast examination.
He told the panel that ‘at least a third of women don’t check their breasts regularly.’ Even more worryingly, upon discovery of a lump, a lot of women don’t see the doctor because they’re too worried.
A Loose Women poll asked: “Are you confident you know how to check your boobs for signs of breast cancer?” 65% of you answered “no”.
Dr Jonty and Gloria discuss breast cancer
Fortunately Dr Jonty was on hand to offer some helpful hints for self-breast examination. He said: “I always suggest checking yourself around every month or so. It’s helpful to do it at a similar time of the month.” Adding: “Particularly before your menopause, because often with your menstrual cycle the texture of the breast tissue will change. It’s good to get used to how your breasts feel.”
Are all lumps cancerous? Reassuringly the answer is no.
Dr Jonty explained that 'most cancer is identified because someone feels a lump. But most lumps are not cancerous, they’re cysts or fibrous tissue.' But he continued to stress the importance of getting any lump checked out.
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