Early Detection is Best - we offer a how-to guide for breast self exams in honour of Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer to affect Canadian women. The cause of breast cancer is still unknown and most likely there are individual causes that depend on each woman's genetic make-up and environmental surroundings. We do, however, know some risk factors that make some women more susceptible to developing breast cancer. These include having a close relative with breast cancer, being on hormone replacement therapy, late onset of menopause beyond 55 years of age, having no children or not breast feeding, and having a high body weight as measured by body mass index.

Regular screening is by far the best way to minimize the effect breast cancer has on your life. Even before you step into your health care provider's office, be sure you know how to regularly examine your breasts for any changes. If you menstruate, perform this check two or three days after the end of your period, when your breasts are least likely to be tender or swollen.

Steps to perform a proper self examination:

1. Stand before a mirror. Inspect both breasts for anything unusual, such as discharge from the nipples, rash or puckering, dimpling, or scaling of the skin.
2. The next two steps are designed to emphasize any changes in the shape or contour of your breasts. Watching closely in the mirror, clasp your hands behind your head and press hands forward. Next, press hands firmly on hips and bow slightly toward the mirror as you pull your shoulders and elbows forward.
3. Raise your left arm. Use three or four fingers of your right hand to explore your left breast firmly, carefully, and thoroughly feeling for any unusual lump or mass under the skin. Beginning at the outer edge, press the flat part of your fingers in small circles, moving the circles slowly around the breast. Pay special attention to the tail of the breast (area between the breast and armpit) and the armpit.
   Repeat this for the right breast using your left hand.
   Hint: Some women like to do this part of the exam in the shower. Fingers glide over soapy skin, making it easier to feel textures.
4. Gently squeeze the nipple of your left breast and look for a discharge. Repeat this examination for your right breast.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 lying flat on your back with your arm over your head and a pillow or folded towel under the shoulder of the breast you are examining. This position flattens the breast tissue making it easier to examine. Use the same circular motion described above in step 3. Do this for the left and the right breast.

If you find anything unusual or suspicious, or have any questions, report it to your health care provider immediately!
There are many screening options available through your trusted health care advisor as well. These range from mammograms to ultrasound. Be sure to check with your health care provider to determine your best route of action based on your health history and that of your family!

Mary MacDonald, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine

www.marymacdonaldnd.ca