What does it really mean?
Just being breast aware is not enough, women and men need to have good breast health understanding. This means being aware of the importance of breast health, having confidence in recognising changes in your breasts, knowing the risk factors for breast cancer, and learning how to complete your own regular breast check.
Awareness
Being breast aware is about knowing how your breasts look and feel and knowing what is ‘normal’ for you. While nearly three quarters of Australian women believe they are breast aware, only 16% have the appropriate knowledge and skills. We need to ensure we are talking about breast health with family and friends. The right conversations will help build a new generation of women and men who have greater awareness about their breasts.
It is also important to ensure you are confident identifying any physical changes in your breasts that may be an indication of breast cancer. Confidence comes with learning your breasts through regular checks and knowing what to look for.
You should breast check once a month, around the same time in your menstrual cycle, to account for any regular hormonal changes. Self-checking can alert you to changes in your body that should be examined by a medical professional. If breast cancer is diagnosed and treated in its early stages, the survival rates are improved.
How to check your breasts each month
- LOOK at the shape and appearance of your breasts and nipples in the mirror with your hands by your sides. Raise your arms above your head and have another look.
- FEEL all your breasts and nipples, looking for anything that is not normal for you. Feel from your collarbone to below the bra-line, and under your armpit too.
- LEARN what is normal for you! Breasts come in all different shapes and sizes, so get to know your normal. See your doctor if you notice any changes.
A breast cancer diagnosis changes your life, often in ways you would not expect. The impact can be felt right through your family and friends. As much as you try, the diagnosis, the treatment and the disease can take over your life.
By donating to the McGrath foundation, you are helping raise money to fund McGrath Breast Care Nurses who provide invaluable support and care to individuals and families experiencing breast cancer. From diagnosis right throughout treatment, McGrath Breast Care Nurses are available to help for free and with no referral.
To donate: Donate to the McGrath Foundation - McGrath Foundation
Sourced from the McGrath Foundation Website. For more information visit: Homepage - McGrath Foundation