Early detection of breast cancer and early treatment leads in most cases to radical cure of the disease · Delayed diagnosis and discovery of breast cancer means in most cases difficult treatment and spread to various body parts · Periodic breast mammogram is the only and most essential investigation for early detection of breast cancer , while breast ultrasonography reveals small size breast masses before being discovered by you or the treating doctor, but that doesn’t undermine the important o periodic self-examination in early detection of breast cancer · The presence of a breast mass doesn’t necessarily mean it’s cancer as most of breast masses are benign. · Breast soreness or pain is a normal complaint for most women in different ages, while the underlying reasons for this pain are various, and it rarely signifies the presence of breast cancer. · Below the age of 35 it’s preferable to have a periodic breast ultrasonography, and then proceed to mammogram if required.

Ladies, examine your breast regularly and monthly. Remember that most cases of breast cancer were primarily discovered by the women patients themselves . early detection and early onset of treatment leads to better prognosis and cure results

There s a very simple technique that includes three steps to help you examine your breasts.

The best time is after one week from the end of your menstruation(period) as the pain and swelling in your breasts will have vanished. While for menopausal women( the older women who don’t get their periods any more), it s preferable to examine your at the beginning of every month. As for those who had a hysterectomy( had their uterus removed) , its better to consult your doctor about the best time for breast self examination.

The presence of a lump ( abnormal mass) Secretions from the nipple other than milk for breast feeding mothers Change in the size of one or both breasts. Change in the shape of one or both breasts; flattening or marble-like area Discoloration of breast tissue or change in skin texture. Tenderness of the breast and/or nipple. Chafing, or flaking of the breast skin. Swelling in the armpit. Pain or tingling sensation within the breast. Nipple abnormalities as cracking, pulled in nipple ,or deviation to one side.

You can examine your breasts during the shower. Use your whole right hand to examine your left breast and vice versa Look for any skin abnormality or abnormal masses

Raise your arms then put your hand on your waist to your sides while in front of the mirror. Look for any change or abnormality as change in the size or shape of your breasts, dimpling or roughness of the skin , nipple abnormalities, color changes.

Put a pillow or a towel under your right shoulder and your right hand behind your head, then start scrolling over your right breast with your left hand gently with your finger tips and start pressing against your breast gently from the outwards inwards towards the nipple without leaving a spot unexamined in 3 circular rounds. Examine the left breast in the same technique Squeeze your nipple gently between your index and thumb to check for any secretions. Raise each arm and examine with your opposite hand any abnormality underarms.

· Practice sports regularly around 3 times a week for at least 45 minutes · Eat a lot of vegetables and specially those rich in fibers as broccoli, turnip and spinach. · Have homemade fresh juices daily · Avoid wearing a tight bra for a long time. · Avoid foods rich in unsaturated fats. · Eat a lot of soy containing foods as tofu, soya milk and seeds. · Try to reduce your daily consumption of dairy products and cheese · Try meditating daily and practicing yoga as they decrease stress · Consult your doctor about the periodic investigation to be done · Have a monthly periodic breast self-examination · Try to maintain a healthy weight and avoid obesity · Drink a lot of green tea as it’s rich in antioxidants and help fight cancer · Decrease your daily consumption of caffeine · Have 800mg of vitamin E and 1000 mg of vitamin C daily