TOUCH. LOOK. CHECK.
Love your breasts. Be breast aware.
Most cases of breast cancer are found by women noticing unusual changes, taking the initiative and visiting their doctor. The earlier breast cancer is found, the better the chance of beating it – so you can see how important it is to make regular checks.
Being breast aware simply means knowing what your breasts look and feel like normally, being on the lookout for any unusual changes and getting them checked out by your doctor. Lumps are vital to look out for – but there can be other important signs too. And even if you do find a lump, in nine out of ten cases they turn out not to be cancerous. So stay calm – remain in control.
It’s as simple as TLC...
TOUCH your breasts. Can you feel anything unusual?
LOOK for changes. Is there any change in shape and texture?
CHECK anything unusual with your doctor.
No one knows your body better than you and everyone will have their own way of touching and looking for changes – there’s no special technique and you don’t need any training. It’s good to get into the habit of doing this regularly – maybe when you’re in the bath or shower, or while getting dressed in the morning. You might prefer to do it while standing up or lying down. Either way, the important thing is to be familiar with how your breasts look and feel normally, so you notice anything unusual – and remember to check the whole breast area, including your upper chest and armpits.
You’re never too old for some TLC
Whatever your age, it’s good to get into the habit of checking. The risk of breast cancer increases with age, so if you are over 50, you’ll get an invitation for free breast screening every three years, which we think you should take up. And remember if you’re over 70 (or you know someone who is), you are still entitled to free breast screening – just ask your doctor.
