One Fact about Breast Cancer that Could Save Your Life

If detected early, breast cancer has a 98% curable rate. An impressive and worrying statistic at the same time.

Worrying because, according to a study released last year in The Lancet, in the Middle East and North Africa, breast cancer appears at a more advanced stage and with larger tumors compared to the rest of the world.

The incidence of breast cancer is also on the rise in the region and appears an average of 10 years younger in women here. It is now the most common malignant disease among Arab women.

Breast self exams (BSEs) are a simple way to help early detection. Women should start it in their 20s and women over 40 should schedule regular mammograms.

BSEs should be performed monthly, ideally a few days after your period has ended. Just follow these simple steps:

1. Stand in front of a mirror and examine the appearance of your breasts.

2. Place your arms behind your head and look for any changes in your breasts and nipples, such as swelling or dimpling.

3. Place your hands firmly on your hips and look for any changes in your breasts and nipples. You may repeat steps two and three for careful examination.

4. Raise your left arm behind your head. Use the finger pads of your three middle fingers on your right hand to feel for lumps or hard areas on your left breast. Move in a circular motion from outside to inside and be sure to include the armpit area.

5. If you are not breastfeeding, squeeze your left nipple to check for any discharge or lumps. Repeat steps 4 and 5 for your right breast.

6. Lie down and repeat step 4 for your left and right breasts.

Most changes in your breasts won’t turn out to be breast cancer, but if you notice anything significant or feel any lumps, be sure to schedule a doctor’s appointment as the sooner breast cancer is diagnosed, the more effective treatment may be.

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