Breast cancer is a form of cancer that develops from the breast tissue. It is commonly found in women, but, in rare cases, it can be diagnosed in men too.
According to the World Health Organization, there are 7.6 Billion cases of breast cancer as of year 2019. Most cases detected the disease in later stage, so it is highly recommended to be aware of ourselves or loved ones. This disease is continuously claiming lives and this is no joke. Early detection saves lives, and there is a cure so we don't have to be afraid and just be responsible.
Here are 3 important ways to prevent Breast Cancer:
1. Know symptoms and signs of breast cancer
- Armpit Lumps
- Swelling
- Nipple discharge or retraction of the nipple
- Enlargement of one breast, dimpling of the breast surface
- An “orange peel” texture to the skin
- Unintentional weight loss and bone pain
- Enlarged lymph nodes in the armpit
- Visible veins on the breast.
- Unusual pain on breast area
2. Practice a Healthy Lifestyle
No one knows the exact causes of breast cancer, but the best way to prevent any disease is to live a healthy lifestyle. Most people who have breast cancer was reported to have unhealthy lifestyle, in which includes: smoking cigarettes, excessive drinking of alcohol, obesity; plus the family history. This mean, like other cancer, this one can be hereditary.
Eating healthy food, limiting alcohol intake, performing 75 minutes of physical activity per week; getting enough sleep and avoiding chemicals that poison your body can be the best prevention of all diseases and this can play a major role in reducing the risk.
3. Get Yourself Tested
There are two ways to be tested, one is, "self testing" in which includes these steps from breastcancer.org:
Step 1: Begin by looking at your breasts in the mirror with your shoulders straight and your arms on your hips.
Step 2: Now, raise your arms and look for the same changes.
Step 3: While you're at the mirror, look for any signs of fluid coming out of one or both nipples (this could be a watery, milky, or yellow fluid or blood).
Step 4: Lie down, put your right hand on your head and feel the area of the breast with your palm. Use a circular motion to feel and check if there is unusual bumps. Do this on the different areas of the breast. Left and right ; vise versa.
Step 5: Finally, feel your breasts while you are standing or sitting. Many women find that the easiest way to feel their breasts is when their skin is wet and slippery, so they like to do this step in the shower.
When you are unsure of self testing, and you feel like there is unusual feeling on your breast it is best time to go to experts. To make sure of the result, it is best to get yourself tested with experts.
Tests that can help diagnose breast cancer include:
- Mammogram. The most common way to see below the surface of your breast is with an imaging test called a mammogram. Many women aged 40 and older get annual mammograms to check for breast cancer. If your doctor suspects you may have a tumor or suspicious spot, they will also request a mammogram. If an abnormal area is seen on your mammogram, your doctor may request additional tests.
- Ultrasound. A breast ultrasound uses sound waves to create a picture of the tissues deep in your breast. An ultrasound can help your doctor distinguish between a solid mass, such as a tumor, and a benign cyst.
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