Breast Self Examination (BSE).
This is the most effective, safe and inexpensive method of
detecting Breast Cancer (B.C.) in its early stage, when chances of complete
cure are brightest.
Who & when one should do BSE?
All mothers, sisters, daughters, aunts, cousins, friends &
even men too should do this. Do BSE monthly. 7-10 days from the day one of
previous menstrual cycle. Same day every month in anyone not menstruating.
Basic FOUR Steps in BSE:
Look, Feel, Note down and Seek expert help.
Look & Observe:
Stand in front of a mirror large enough to see yourself from
waist upwards. Look, observe size, shape, colour, contour and any change in
nipple & areola. Turn slowly from side to side as you look. Observe in 3
positions; with arms by your side, arms raised above your head & with both
hands pressing on your hips. (Figs 1, 2 & 3)
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Feel and Experience: (FIG. 4)
This is done in 2 positions – in standing & lying positions.
(Figs. 5 & 6) Feel right breast with left hand and left breast with the
right. Feel with the FLAT of the fingers and hand making a circular motion as
you feel. The feeling hand may be moistened with soap & water, as you bathe
or with a lotion. Feel all areas of breast in an orderly fashion- in the 4
quadrants of breast and the fifth area, the armpit. Start with, say upper
outer, then upper inner, lower inner, lower outer quadrants and finally the
armpit. Complete examination on both sides and in standing and lying positions.
What to look for:
Remember how your breast feels each month. Look and feel for
changes in later sittings.
Look for the following:
·
A lump, swelling or hardness.
·
Skin scaliness, redness or irritation.
·
Dimpling or indrawn of skin anywhere on breast.
·
Nipple- redness, scaliness, discharge or retraction
·
(In drawing). Pain- spontaneous or on pressure in any area.
Note down:
Note in your diary, the dates of BSE. Note any of the changes
indicated above.
Seek expert help:
Consult your family physician if you notice any changes or if
you have any doubt. The family doctor will examine you and if he feels further
evaluation is necessary, will order these tests or refer you to a surgeon. The
surgeon will do complete physical examination and either simply reassures you
that he does not suspect any serious disease at all. If in slightest doubt, few
tests will be done. These may also consist of "Mammogram" and/or Fine
needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and maybe a simple operation of open Biopsy.
At some stage, it will be conclusively established that there is or there is no
cancer.
The main purpose of BSE:
The aim of BSE and later medical consultation if needed is to
make sure there is no cancer or to detect it in its Early Stage, when It Can is
cured!
Do BSE regularly and help yourself to fight
Breast Cancer and Win!
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