Performing regular breast self-exams (BSE) is a proactive way for individuals to monitor their breast health and potentially detect early signs of breast cancer. It is important to note that while self-exams can be a valuable tool, they are not a substitute for regular mammograms or clinical breast exams conducted by healthcare professionals.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Monika Pansari, HOD and Senior Consultant Surgical Oncology (Breast and Gyneac) at Gleneagles Hospitals in Bengaluru, shared a step-by-step guide on how to perform a breast self-exam -

1. Choose a Regular Time: Perform the self-exam at the same time each month, preferably a few days after your menstrual period ends. For postmenopausal women, choose a specific day each month.

2. Visual Inspection:

3. Raise Your Arms:

4. Feel for Changes while Lying Down:

5. Feel for Changes while Sitting Up:

6. Repeat for the Left Breast:

7. Check the Nipples:

8. Note Any Changes:

Remember, regular breast self-exams should be part of a comprehensive approach to breast health, which includes regular clinical breast exams and mammograms as recommended by your healthcare provider. If you have any concerns or questions, seek professional medical advice.

According to Dr Monika Pansari, regular self-checks of the breast are important for several reasons:

Asserting that self-awareness plays a crucial role in the early detection of breast cancer, Dr Monika Pansari highlighted several aspects of self-awareness that contribute to identifying potential issues at an early stage -

She concluded, It's important to note that while self-checks are valuable, they should be combined with regular clinical breast exams and mammograms as part of a comprehensive approach to breast health. Individuals should discuss their breast health and screening options with their healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate plan for their individual circumstances. In summary, self-awareness is a proactive and empowering aspect of breast health. By actively engaging in self-exams, monitoring changes, understanding risk factors, and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers, individuals contribute significantly to the early detection of breast cancer. Early detection often leads to more effective treatment options and improved outcomes.

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Breast self-examination: How to check for early signs of breast cancer - Hindustan Times