This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we at DOUBL are committed to empowering you with essential tools and knowledge to prioritize your breast health. One of the most effective ways to do this is by practicing breast self-awareness. Knowing what’s normal for your breasts and being vigilant about any changes can be crucial in detecting potential issues early.
What is Breast Self-Awareness?
Breast self-awareness isn’t just about performing a monthly exam; it’s about becoming familiar with your breasts and noticing any changes in how they look or feel. By regularly paying attention to your breast tissue, you can identify any unusual changes early, giving you the best chance of detecting anything concerning before it develops further.
What should you watch for?
- Changes in the size, shape, or feel of the breast
- Dimpling or puckering of the skin
- Changes in the nipple, including inversion, discharge, or a difference in how the nipple feels
- Unexplained lumps or thickening in the breast tissue
It’s important to remember that what’s normal for your breasts can change over time. Factors such as your menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause, or aging can affect how your breasts feel. By practicing self-awareness, you’ll know what’s typical for you, allowing you to notice changes as they happen.
How to Practice Breast Self-Awareness
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Up and Down Pattern: Move your fingers up and down over the entire breast, from your collarbone down to the top of your abdomen, and from your armpit to your cleavage.
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Wedges: Begin at the nipple and move outward in a wedge shape, covering the entire breast area.
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Circles: Start at the outer edge of your breast and make small, circular motions, moving inward toward the nipple.
You can perform these checks while lying down, standing in front of a mirror, or even in the shower. The key is consistency and comfort—do what feels best for you.
New Screening Recommendations for Early Detection
While breast self-awareness is important, mammograms remain one of the most powerful tools in detecting breast cancer early. There have been some recent, major updates to breast cancer screening guidelines that you should be aware of:
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In the United States: The United States Preventive Services Task Force now recommends that all women aged 40 to 74 get screened every other year. This is a significant update from prior guidelines, which recommended beginning screening at age 50. By lowering the recommended age to 40, more women can benefit from earlier detection.
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In Ontario, Canada: Ontario has expanded its breast cancer screening program to include all women aged 40 to 74. Women at high risk, between the ages of 30 and 74, are also eligible for screening. This expansion aims to provide early detection for women at various stages of risk.
Why Early Screening is So Important
Screening mammograms can detect lumps or abnormalities in the breast up to two or three years before you or your doctor can feel them. This early detection is crucial, as it can lead to earlier treatment and better outcomes. We at DOUBL love to see the movement toward earlier and more accessible screening—it’s a huge step forward for women’s health.
Taking Charge of Your Breast Health
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we encourage you to be proactive about your breast health. Practice breast self-awareness regularly, and if you’re within the age range for screening, schedule your mammogram. Remember, early detection saves lives. By staying informed and taking action, you are giving yourself the best possible chance for good health.
At DOUBL, we believe in supporting women through every stage of life, and that includes empowering you to feel confident about your health. Stay informed, stay aware, and take care of yourself—because your health is always worth it.