Question 1

What are signs and symptoms of Breast cancer ?

Accepted Answer

You may want to consult your doctor if you experience any of the the following symptoms 
1. A breast mass (lump).
2. A breast ulcer that does not heal.
3. Ulceration or change in color and shape of the nipple.
4. Swollen glands in your armpits.
5. Swelling, pain and reddish discoloration of the breast that does not respond to                      conventional treatment.
6. Blood or fluid discharge from your nipple

Question 2

How to perform a Breast self examination ?

Accepted Answer

1. Ensure normal appearance of the breast and nipples by examining the breasts in front        of the mirror with your arms at your sides. Check for unusual discoloration, swelling,          dimpling, or puckering
2. Raise your arms overhead and look for the changes listed above in any particular side.      Check for any unusual discharge and thickening of the breast. 
3. Lie down and place a pillow under your right shoulder and raise your right hand                  overhead. Use your left hand to apply firm pressure around the right breast and armpit.      Check for the symptoms listed above and repeat these steps with your left breast.
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Question 3

How often must Breast self examination be performed ?

Accepted Answer

Adult women of all ages are encouraged to perform breast self-exams at least once a month.Ideally, women should begin practicing breast self-examination by age 20 and continue the practice throughout their lives - even during pregnancy and after menopause.

Question 4

Who can I contact if I suspect a tumor/lump after my Breast self examination

Accepted Answer

Please reach out to your nearest ASHA worker or healthcare provider , here is a list of physicians/doctors that you can reach ( Google maps services)

Question 5

How is Breast Cancer diagnosed ?

Accepted Answer

Daignosis of Breast cancer involves the following steps 
 
Breast Mammogram- An X-ray of the breast tissue, which can typically can be performed as a form of routine screening or be administered if physician suspects signs of breast cancer.The latter case is called a diagnostic mammogram and can help determine if these symptoms are indicative of the presence of cancer. As compared to screening mammograms, diagnostic mammograms provide a more detailed x-ray of the breast tissue.
 
Breast Ultrasound - A breast ultrasound is a scan that uses penetrating sound waves that do not affect or damage the tissue and cannot be heard by humans. The breast tissue deflects these waves causing echoes, which a computer uses to paint a picture of what’s going on inside the breast tissue. A mass filled with liquid shows up differently than a solid mass
 
Breast Biopsy - A breast biopsy is a test that removes tissue or sometimes fluid from the suspicious area. The removed cells are examined under a microscope and further tested to check for the presence of breast cancer. A biopsy is the only diagnostic procedure that can definitely determine if the suspicious area is cancerous

Question 6

What are the risk factors and how can I reduce my risk of Breast Cancer ?

Accepted Answer

Risk factors include
 
1. Increased age ( greater than 50 years)
2. Early menstrual periods  ( before age 12) and delayed menopause (after age 55)
3. Family history of breast or other cancers
4. Having first pregnancy after age 30 , no breastfeeding and never having a full term                pregnancy increase breast cancer likelihood.
5. Hormonal contraceptive treatments
6. Smoking and Alcohol consumption
 
Although you cannot prevent cancer, some habits that can help reduce your risk are:
 
1. Maintain a healthy weight
2. Stay physically active
3. Do not smoke
4. Limit alcohol consumption