Breast self-exam guidelines
In addition to scheduling
clinical screenings and
mammograms, women
should routinely examine
and massage their breasts to
detect any abnormalities. These
breast self-exams can be an
important part of early breast
cancer detection.
Although many women are
aware that they should become
familiar with their bodies, many
are unsure about just how frequently
they should conduct
breast examinations. Experts at
Johns Hopkins Medical center
advise adult women of all
ages to perform self-examinations
at least once a month.
That’s because 40 percent of
diagnosed breast cancers are
first detected by women who
feel a lump. Establishing a regular
breast self-exam schedule is
very important.
Begin by looking at the
breasts in a mirror. Note the size
and appearance of the breasts,
and pay attention to any changes
that are normal parts of hormonal
changes associated with
menstruation. Breasts should
be evenly shaped without distortion
or swelling.
Changes that should cause
concern include dimpling,
puckering, or bulging of the
skin. Inverted nipples or nipples
that have changed position,
as well as any rash or redness,
Caribbean L 44 ife, Oct. 11-17, 2019 BQ
should be noted. In addition,
the same examination should
be done with arms raised over
the head.
The breasts should be felt
while both lying down and
standing up. Use the right hand
to manipulate the left breast
and vice versa. Use a firm touch
with the first few fingers of the
hand. Cover the
entire breast in circular
motions. The
pattern taken doesn’t
matter so long as it
covers the entire breast.
tissue, from the front
back of the breast,
be felt.
The same pattern and
procedure should be conducted
while standing
up. Many women find
this easiest to do
while in the shower.
is important not
to panic if something is
detected. Not every lump is
breast cancer. And bumps may
actually be normal parts of the
breast, as certain areas can feel
different than others. But bring
any concerns to the attention of
your doctor.
Breast self-exams are a
healthy habit to adopt. When
used in conjunction with regular
medical care and mammography,
self-exams can be yet
another tool in helping to detect
breast abnormalities. Doctors
and nurses will use similar
breast examination techniques
during routine examinations.
Close-up Of A Woman’s Hand On Breast Showing Cancer Symptom
p
m
cov
All ti
to the
should
The
proc
duc
u
It
They count on you,
So count on us to
keep you going.
Medicare Advantage with
Prescription Drug Plans
$0 or Low Cost Plan Premiums
Health plan options for those with Medicare
and those with both Medicare and Medicaid
Call for eligibility and enrollment
agewellnewyork.com
718-696-0206
TTY/TDD 800-662-1220
AgeWell New York, LLC is a HMO plan with a Medicare and Medicaid contract. Enrollment in AgeWell New York, LLC depends on contract renewal. ATTENTION:
If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-866-237-3210 (TTY/TDD: 1-800-662-1220). Hours
are 7 days a week from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. Note: From April 1 to September 30, we may use alternate technologies on Weekends and Federal holidays.
Assistance services for other languages are also available free of charge at the number above. AgeWell New York complies with applicable Federal civil
rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of races, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. AgeWell New York cumple con las leyes federales de
derechos civiles aplicables y no discrimina por motivos de raza, color, nacionalidad, edad, discapacidad o sexo. AgeWell New York
H4922_Count4002_M Accepted 09082019
/agewellnewyork.com