Understanding Breast Cancer

🎗️ Understanding Breast Cancer and the Importance of Early Detection

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, but with early detection and treatment, survival rates continue to improve. Knowing the risk factors, warning signs, and how to perform a breast self-exam can make a life-saving difference.

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📖 What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. It can spread to nearby tissue or other parts of the body if not detected early. While women are most commonly affected, men can also develop breast cancer.

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🔎 Risk Factors
    •    Age: Risk increases as you get older.
    •    Family History & Genetics: A close relative with breast cancer or genetic mutations like BRCA1/BRCA2 may increase risk.
    •    Hormonal Factors: Early menstruation, late menopause, or hormone replacement therapy can contribute.
    •    Lifestyle Factors: Lack of exercise, smoking, alcohol use, or obesity may increase risk.

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👩⚕️ Warning Signs to Watch For
    •    A lump or thickened area in the breast or underarm.
    •    Changes in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast.
    •    Dimpling or puckering of the skin.
    •    Nipple discharge (other than breast milk), redness, or inversion.
    •    Persistent pain in one area of the breast.

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🧾 How to Perform a Breast Self-Exam
    1.    Look in the mirror: Check both breasts for changes in shape, size, or skin texture.
    2.    Raise your arms: Look for the same changes and check for nipple discharge.
    3.    Feel lying down: Use the pads of your fingers in circular motions across the entire breast, including underarms. Apply light, medium, and firm pressure.
    4.    Feel standing up or in the shower: Many people find it easiest to check breasts while soapy.

Tip: Perform self-exams once a month, a few days after your menstrual cycle ends.

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📅 Screenings & Professional Care
    •    Clinical breast exam: Every 1–3 years for women in their 20s and 30s; every year for women 40+.
    •    Mammogram: Annual screenings beginning at age 40, or earlier if high risk.
    •    Genetic testing: May be recommended if you have a strong family history.

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🧡 Resources & Support

For more detailed information and support, visit:
    •    American Cancer Society (https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer.html)
    •    National Breast Cancer Foundation (https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-self-exam/)
    •    CDC – Breast Cancer (https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/index.htm)
    •    BreastCancer.org (https://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/understand_bc)

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✅ Takeaway

Breast cancer awareness starts with education. By knowing the risks, watching for symptoms, and performing regular self-exams, you can take charge of your health and improve the chances of early detection.