It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month—let’s talk about it!
Did you know that Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women in the world? Astonishingly, 1 in 8 women will get breast cancer in their lifetime.
The good news is breast cancer rates are on the decline! The reason? Early detection and widespread awareness. Simple things like self-check exams and regular screenings are saving lives around the world. Want to know how to check at home and reduce your risk? Here are a few tips and tricks you can use:
1. Look in the mirror.
Looking at your breasts in the mirror from every angle! Don’t forget to include the sides, and underneath! If you see anything new or out of the ordinary, call your doctor for a check-up.
2. Massage them.
Next, continue looking in the mirror and put one hand behind your head. Now place three fingers to your breast and check for lumps, bumps, or anything that strikes you as not your "normal."
3. Keep massaging!
Move your three fingers in small circles up with different levels of pressure. Is there any pain where there shouldn’t be?
4. Check your armpits.
Cover your entire breast up and down and into the armpit area, finishing inside your armpit. Leave no breast area unchecked! Make sure you check your pits, this is where your lymphatic system is and where many breast cancers develop.
5. Then your nipples.
Lastly, squeeze each nipple. If there is any discharge or pain, see a doctor right away.
Performing self-checks is an easy way to practice self-care and show your body some love. By becoming more comfortable with your body, you’ll be able to notice changes and seek help from a doctor if needed. For more tips, download the Keep A Breast app created by our partner, the Keep A Breast Foundation™. It’s the ultimate self-check tool, helping you learn about breast health education, walking you through self-check steps, direct connection to virtual care, stories of breast cancer survivors, and an in-app sharing feature.
Join our commitment to reduce the risk of breast cancer through education. Show your support this October by supporting the Keep A Breast Foundation (by wearing our Socks that Promote Breast Cancer Prevention), uplifting people who are directly affected, and spreading awareness. Early detection is key.
