Awareness of breast cancer symptoms and the need for screening are important ways of reducing the risk. The assumption is that early detection will improve outcomes.
Breast cancer screening refers to testing women for breast cancer in an attempt to achieve an early diagnosis. A number of screening tests have been employed including: clinical and self breast exams, mammography, genetic screening, ultrasound as well as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
However, due to a shortage of facilities in our nation, Breast Self Examination (BSE) is encouraged since most of the lumps are discovered personally. This “self-screening” method will save your life… and breast. If a cancer growth is found, it is likely to be smaller. It may, therefore, be possible to remove the lump (by a lumpectomy) instead of removing the whole breast (a mastectomy). Remember, knowing it exists is not enough- It is therefore wise to get screened this October!