Breast Cancer Awareness

Breast Cancer Awareness
Know more, so there's no more

Got a question about breast cancer? The answer may be here.

Lta 2778 2016 September Articles Wip 01 02

Q: How often should I go to my doctor for a check-up?  A: You should have a physical every year, which should include a clinical breast exam and pelvic exam. If any unusual symptoms or changes in your breasts occur before your scheduled visit, see your doctor immediately.

Q: How often should I do a breast self-exam? A: Give yourself a breast self-exam once a month. Look for any changes in breast tissue, such as changes in size, feeling a palpable lump, dimpling or puckering of the breast, inversion of the nipple, redness or scaliness of the breast skin, redness or scaliness of the nipple/areola area, or discharge of secretions from the nipple.

Q: When should I contact a doctor? A: If you discover a persistent lump in your breast or any changes, it is very important that you see a physician immediately. Though eight out of 10 lumps are benign, all require an evaluation.

Q: When should I do a breast self-exam? A: Women should perform their breast self-exam 7-10 days after their period starts, which is also when their breasts are the least tender and lumpy. If they are no longer menstruating, then they should select the same day of the month (first of the month, for example) and mark it on a calendar. It is not unusual to have lumpy or bumpy breasts. All women should know the geography of their own breasts. If you are having trouble remembering, draw a diagram of where you feel lumps, bumps, grooves, and other findings so that this can be used as a reminder from month to month. There is no added value in doing breast self-exams more often than monthly.

Taken from the National Breast Cancer Foundation Inc. For more info, see nationalbreastcancer.org.

Recommended articles
Legal You August 2024 Feature

Legal&You November 2024

In our latest edition of Legal&You, we are providing you with a free wealth checkup. With the end of the year fast approaching, why not take your free wealth checkup to understand your current position and start planning for your financial goals next year. There is no time like the present.
Article
Feature Nov24 3

16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

In South Africa, a woman loses her life to violence every six hours by her intimate partner, a stark reminder of the deep-seated crisis of gender-based violence (GBV). These numbers aren't just statistics; they represent lives cut short, families shattered, and communities left to mourn. As we approach 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, equip yourself and your community with knowledge of the rights and support available to break the cycle of abuse.
Video
Feature Nov24 4

The Pressing Debt Crisis in South Africa

About 25 million adults in South Africa have incurred some form of debt, a situation that has continued to grow in recent years. Millions of South Africans are now under severe financial strain, with the cost-of-living crisis, unemployment rates climbing, and economic growth sluggish. With debt becoming a universal issue, you should explore ways to take control of your finances.
Video
View our other information hubs