Breast Awareness

Becoming breast aware

It is important that every woman is breast aware. This means knowing what is normal for you so that if any unusual change occurs, you will recognise it. The sooner you notice a change the better, because if cancer is found early, treatment is more likely to be successful. Get into the habit of looking at and feeling your breasts from time to time.

What changes should I be aware of?

• A change in size or shape – it may be that one breast has become larger
• Changes in the nipple – in direction or shape, pulled in or flattened nipple
• Changes on or around the nipple – rash, flaky or crusted skin
• Changes in the skin – dimpling, puckering or redness
• ‘Orange Peel’ appearance of the skin caused by unusually enlarged pores
• Swelling in your armpit or around your collarbone
• A lump, any size, or thickening in your breast
• Constant pain in one part of your breast or armpit

Look for changes

One way of looking is by using a mirror so that you can see the breasts from different angles.

Feel for changes

An easy way of feeling your breast is with a soapy hand in the bath or shower. Some women prefer to feel for changes while lying down.

The 5 point breast awareness code

1. Know what is normal for you
2. Know what changes to look for
3. Look and feel
4. Discuss any changes with your GP without delay
5. Attend for routine breast screening if you are aged between 50 and 64

Know what is normal for you

Your breasts will go through many normal changes during your life. For example, they are affected by changes in your hormones during the following times:

The menstrual cycle

Each month, when you are having periods, your breasts often change. They can become bigger, tender and lumpy usually before a period starts and return to normal once the period is over. Some women, however, may have tender, lumpy breasts throughout their cycle.

Pregnancy & breast-feeding

The changes that occur during your menstrual cycle continue during pregnancy. While breast-feeding, your breasts may be very enlarged, firm and tender; this is normal at this time. However, you should continue to check your breasts and discuss any unusual changes with your GP.

The menopause

After the menopause your breasts will feel softer and they may get bigger or smaller. If there is a change in only one breast, you should discuss this with your doctor. HRT hormone replacement therapy may cause your breasts to feel firmer and quite tender.

What to do if you find something

If you do notice any change in your breasts, see your GP as soon as possible. Remember that most breast changes are not cancer and are harmless. When your GP examines your breasts she or he may be able to reassure you that there is nothing to worry about. If the change could be connected with your hormones, your GP may ask you to come back at a different stage in your menstrual cycle. Alternatively, you may be sent to a breast clinic for a more detailed examination.

Don’t worry that you may be making an unnecessary fuss and remember that nine out of ten breast lumps are harmless

Did you know?

• Early diagnosis is a key to surviving breast cancer.
• More than 1,700 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in Ireland each year.
• Irish women have a 1 in 12 chance of developing breast cancer in their lifetime.
• 74% of Irish women with breast cancer discovered the lump themselves.
• Only about five to ten per cent of breast cancers are believed to have a family link.
• The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. Approximately 80%of breast cancers occur in women over 50 years.
• Around 14 men develop breast cancer in Ireland each year.