Breast Cancer - Techniques for Early Action

Photo: Medline Plus

Breast Cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer today, with the probability of 1 in 8 women being diagnosed with it in the United States. (National Breast Cancer Foundation Inc.) But what are ways that women can look for signs of this disease so that they can seek medical attention earlier?

1. Breast Massages

By standing or laying down, people can check for lumps (which could be tumors) in their breast by pressing down at different pressures. This should be started at the armpit, then following down to the actual breast using any pattern: up and down, in circles, or the outside to the nipple. This should be done once a month. Women should also squeeze the nipple to check for discharge, for it's presence could also be a sign for a tumor.

2. Visual Test

People can see signs of breast cancer by just looking at their breast visually. Indications to look for would be changes in the symmetry of the breasts or if the nipple(s) are turned in. Skin texture should also be checked, with signs such as "puckering, indentations, or skin that looks like an orange peel" being a possible indicator for Breast Cancer. (Medline Plus)

Important Reminders:

When catching a lump or seeing any visual differences, people should go get a mammogram to more accurately check for any tumors. Women should get a mammogram every other year (Medical News Today), and self checking for cancer should not limit them from getting any (if they couldn't feel a lump for see any signs.)

References

Breast self-exam: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. (n.d.). https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001993.htm

Sissons, C. (2024, August 1). What does breast cancer look like on a mammogram? https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322068

Team, N. (2025, June 12). Breast Cancer Facts & Stats 2024 - Incidence, age, survival, & more. National Breast Cancer Foundation. https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast- cancer-facts/

Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board