It may not necessarily prevent you from getting diagnosed with the illness, but it can lead to early detection so that you can get access to treatment.

How to do a self-examination at home

You can choose to stand in front of a mirror or to lay down on your bed to do this. Covering your fingers with soap or massage oils can make it easier for your hand to glide across your skin. Lift your arms above your head and see if there are any changes in your breast in the form of a lump, dimple, size in one breast, or redness around your breast. Use three of your middle fingers to feel around your breast. You can do this in the figure of six around your breast to feel for any lumps. Seek medical attention should you feel anything or notice any of these signs. 

Experiencing any discharge

The only time where your nipples should discharge anything is when you are breastfeeding. Experiencing a discharge from your nipples of any kind could be a sign of breast cancer. There are four breast cancer tests that you can undergo to detect if any cancerous tissues are forming in your breast. One of these are mammograms. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), a mammogram has proven to reduce breast cancer mortality by approximately 20%.

These tests are done by doctors to look for early signs of breast cancer by using an X-ray of your breast to test it for any cancerous cells. While these are usually recommended for women who are 40 years and older, young women can still benefit from the test. 

Check your armpits too

Cancer can also affect the lymph nodes, which are also known as lymph glands, can be found in our armpits. These play a crucial role in helping the body fight off infections. A swollen lymph node that reveals itself as a swollen lump in your armpit could be a symptom of cancer or bacterial infection. It is still vital to have this checked by a doctor. When doing a self-examination lift your arm and press into your armpit. Should you feel a lump make sure to seek medical attention.

Above the breast & collar bone

Remember that your breast starts from your collar bone down to the actual breast, meaning you will have to check this whole area. Look for any lumps, thickening or swelling of the skin, irritation on your skin, redness or flaky skin or pain around this region. There is a chance that some of these symptoms are a cause of an allergic reaction, but consulting with your doctor is still needed to ensure that it is not breast cancer.