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Did you know that gestational diabetes mellitus, also known as GMD, is one of the most common medical complications of pregnancy? What is GMD? Why
It’s that time of year again: when your social media is flooded with pink ribbons, radio waves are abuzz with tips and fundraisers gain momentum. October is breast cancer awareness month.
In 2020, 2.3 million women, globally, were diagnosed with breast cancer and 685,000 women died as a result of it. In Sri Lanka, it remains the most commonly diagnosed type of cancer with 3,000 new cases diagnosed every year. Despite a lower incidence, men can also develop this disease.
Despite being so common, breast cancer is also highly treatable if detected early. We break down the steps you can take to assess and lower your risk levels.
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is cancer that forms in the breast of the cells.
What are the symptoms of breast cancer?
Generally, symptoms of breast cancer are linked to a palpable or visible change in the breast tissue. Some common symptoms includes:
This means that breast self-exams are extremely important. Regular exams help you get familiar with the normal shape and texture of your breasts so that any anomalies can be quickly identified.
How to perform a breast self-exam in five steps
Look for:
Look for:
3. Lie down on a flat surface. Use your right hand to feel your left breast and vice versa. Use the finger pads of your hand to apply a firm and smooth circular motion (size of a coin) to your breast. Keep the fingers close together.
Cover the whole breast from side to side, up to the collarbones and into the armpit.
Feel for:
4. Feel your breasts in the same manner whilst you are standing or sitting. This is ideally done in the shower as the water and soap allow for a smoother movement.
What to do if you discover a lump or any visible changes
Do not panic. Not all breast lumps or bumps mean breast cancer. In fact, most turn out to be benign (non-cancerous). Non-cancerous breast lumps can be caused by hormonal changes, injuries or a benign condition. However, it is vital that all bumps are discussed with a medical professional.
Don’t be shy, speak to a medical professional. Early detection does save lives. So if you have noticed a lump lasting for longer than one menstrual cycle, it’s important to speak to a family doctor or a GP. The doctor will most often refer you to an imaging test. Ultrasounds are often the only test used for women under 30 whilst ultrasound and mammograms are used for women over 30.
Do ask questions. Here are a few you can ask your GP to help you gain clarity.
If unsatisfied with answers or level of care, do get a second opinion.
How often should I perform a breast self-exam?
At least once a month. The aim is to get familiar with how they look and how they feel so any changes can easily be recognised and addressed.
Vary the time of the month. Become familiar with how your breasts feel before and after your periods so you understand the natural changes that may develop through your cycle.
What are the risk factors?
Risk factors are aspects that make it more likely that someone could develop breast cancer, however, having one or a combination of these factors doesn’t mean you’ll get it. A healthy awareness of risk factors will allow you to take steps to mitigate the risk.
How can I reduce my risk of breast cancer?
Whilst there are no hard and fast rules on ensuring one doesn’t develop breast cancer, the following non-exhaustive list is to help you mitigate your risk:
When it comes to breast cancer, early detection does help save lives.
If you’d like to speak with a GP or a family doctor to discuss your questions or concerns, our oDoc partner doctors are available. Download oDoc here to get started.
Sources
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