Breast health isn't just in October.
Everyone probably knows October is breast health month. For some women it's probably the only time they think about doing an exam. Do you do self breast exams? You really should (nag, nag). Not because overweight and obese women are more prone to cancer but because our breasts tend to be voluminous and this makes it harder to find any cancerous lumps.
According to the Prevent Cancer Foundation (formerly Cancer Research & Prevention Foundation) it's estimated that 178,580 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007. This is not meant to scare you into submission. There is nothing wrong with getting to know your breasts. It's your body, shouldn't you know it better than your boyfriend, lover, or husband. Shouldn't you know your breasts better than your doctor who you see how often? Once a year, once every five years?
Breasts come in all shapes, sizes and densities. No two women have the exact same breasts. Even on the same body. That's why it is so important to know what is normal for your.
To learn how to do a proper breast exam visit The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation for an excellent videoish step by step guide for investigating your breasts. For a printable guide check out Imaginis BSE. Sent this article to all your female friends. Or have a BSE party so you can all learn together.
Remember these are guidelines. Take the time to get to know your breasts. If you're breasts are larger it may take longer to do the exam thoroughly. Don't skimp on your breasts.
Here's to getting to know our breasts and taking charge of our health!
Take our Breast Health Quiz.
