Prioritizing Early Detection of Breast Cancer: Breast Cancer Awareness

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is the most common cancer among women globally, with over 2.3 million new cases reported in 2020. But early detection of breast cancer can make all the difference.

This October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, take charge of your health and make your most important appointment — the one with your hands. Prioritise your breast self-examination and make early detection a part of your daily routine.

Why Breast Self-Examination Matters

Your most important appointment is with your hands. A breast self-examination is a simple and effective way to detect early signs of breast cancer in women. Early detection means better chances for treatment and recovery.

Early detection saves lives, and it begins with awareness.

How to Perform a Self-Examination at Home

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast self-examination (BSE) involves two essential components, looking and feeling. Doing it regularly helps you become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, so you can notice any changes regularly.

1. Look (Visual Inspection)

• Stand undressed from the waist up in front of a mirror in a well-lit room.
• Observe both breasts for any visible change in size, shape, or symmetry.
• Look for dimpling, puckering, swelling, or changes in the skin texture or colour.
• Check if the nipples are turned in, have changed position, or show discharge.
• Raise your arms overhead, then press your hands on your hips and lean forward slightly — look for any movement differences or contour changes.

2. Feel (Manual Examination)

• Use the flat part of your three middle fingers, not the fingertips.
• Examine each breast systematically, moving in small circular motions.
• Apply light, medium, and firm pressure to feel all layers of breast tissue.
• Cover the entire breast — from the collarbone to the top of the abdomen, and from the armpit to the sternum (breastbone).
• Repeat the exam both while lying down and standing or sitting (many women prefer doing it in the shower).
• Check for any lumps, thickening, or hard areas under the skin.

3. Stay Regular

• Perform your breast self-exam once every month, ideally a few days after your menstrual period ends, when breasts are least tender.
• Post-menopausal women can pick the same date each month for consistency.
• If you notice any change, lump, discharge, or persistent pain, consult a doctor without delay.

Take Action This October

Breast cancer prevention starts with awareness. While it’s not always detectable by sight alone, your hands can help you notice changes early and get the right care.

Make self-examination for breast cancer a part of your monthly routine and help raise awareness this month. Early detection leads to better outcomes and stronger recovery.

Remember, Your Most Important Appointment is with Your Hands.