Forty percent of diagnosed breast cancers are detected by women who feel a lump, so establishing a regular breast self-exam

is very important.

Sindecuse Heath Center Western Michigan Universit y

Younger women often do not consider themselves at risk of breast cancer. In fact, under 7% of breast cancer cases occur in women under 40 years old. However, it CAN strike at any age. Breast cancer that develops in younger women is known to be faster growing, more aggressive, and most likely requires chemotherapy. Women of all ages should take precaution and practice breast self exams to protect themselves and make a habit for their future.

Sindecuse Health Center

BREAST SELF EXAMS

BE YOUR OWN BREAST FRIEND

Western Michigan University 1903 W Michigan Ave Kalamazoo MI 49008-5445 USA Phone: (269) 387-3287

How often?

Breast Self Exams

Some women are more prone to breast cancer than others. Women should know of these factors and take extra precaution. High Risk Factors of developing Breast Cancer:
Breast Self Exams should be performed once a month, every month, starting at age 18.

How should it be performed?

In the shower: Soap up your hands and using the tips of your fingers, move around your breast, working your way from the outside to the center. Make sure to go over the whole area including armpit, to check for lumps, hardened areas, or knots. If you find an abnormality, make sure to have it checked by a healthcare professional. In front of a mirror: Visually inspect your breasts with your hands on your hips and your hands above your head. Look for any swelling, dimpling in the skin, or changes in the nipples on one particular side. Notify healthcare professional of any abnormalities. Lying down: Lay down on your back and place one arm above your head with a pillow behind that shoulder. With the other hand use your fingertips to feel the entire breast area including the armpit. Feel for any lumps or hardened spots. Repeat this process on the other breast. Notify healthcare professional of any abnormalities.

Personal history of Breast Cancer or any Breast Disease

Family History of Breast Cancer in close generation

Get to know your breasts and how they look and feel so that abnormalities are easy for you to detect. Precaution and detection are the key to prevention. BE YOUR OWN BREAST FRIEND!

Women that use oral contraception Dense Breasts or Obesity Heavy Alcohol use

Sindecuse Health Center

Western Michigan University 1903 W Michigan Ave Kalamazoo MI 49008-5445 USA Phone: (269) 387-3287