Best ways to care for your breasts-The care for the breasts is usually geared towards breast examinations that will help you prevent or detect any changes in your breasts for prompt action. The goal is to improve prognosis and reduce the death rate caused by breast cancer in the affected population.
Breast Self Examination (BSE)
Early detection of any type of cancer is key to reducing cancer progression and improve patients’ lives during and after treatment. It is to this course that Breast-self examination was recommended.
Regular checks on your breasts will let you know their usual appearance and feel. With this, you’d be able to notice any changes as early as possible. BSE is best done standing over your bathroom mirror as one of the best ways to care for your breasts.
Clinical Breast Exam
This is carried out by a doctor as part of a regular check-up. Here, the doctor searches for lumps or any other changes in both breasts, your underarm, and the areas of your collarbone. You will be required to undergo further investigations if any suspicious appearance is noticed.
Best Ways to Care for Your Breasts-Mammograms
This is a breast cancer screening method where an X-ray of the breasts is used to check for any abnormalities. It is a step forward from the physical examination as it can detect any breast lumps up to 2 years before they can be felt.
The recommendations for mammograms by the American Cancer Society are as follows:
- Women who are 40 to 44 years old: The decision to start a yearly routine X-ray of the breasts lies on the individual at this age. It could also be recommended by your doctor if you are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
2. Women who are 45 to 54 years old: You should get a routine mammogram every year if you are within this age.
3. Women who are 55 years and older: These are mostly post-menopausal women and can switch to getting a mammogram every other year (once in 2 years) or continue with a yearly X-ray.
Breast MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the breasts is one of the best ways to care for your breasts. It helps to create very detailed pictures of the structure and physiological processes of the breasts. It is used for cancer or any other anomalies of the breast.
MRI is usually recommended by a doctor. Especially when there is any suspicious appearance on your breasts. It is also recommended if you are at a higher risk of breast cancer.
Breast Ultrasound
The Food and Drug Administration in 2012 approved Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS) as a supplemental screening tool for women with very dense breasts. It serves as a great alternative where a mammogram is unavailable or nonsufficient for proper diagnosis.
Conclusion
Caring for your breast is important. The burden of Breast Cancer is on the increase globally. This is one of the most important things you can do for yourself as a woman. Use the tips explained here to prevent breast cancer while examining your breasts regularly for early detection should they occur.
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