How to perform a Breast self-examination (BSE) :
is a way for women to check their breasts for lumps or other changes that may be signs of breast cancer. It is usually done once a month, around the same time as a woman's menstrual cycle.
To perform a BSE, a woman should stand in front of a mirror and look at her breasts for any changes in size, shape, or colour. She should then raise her arms and look for any changes in the shape or contour of her breasts.
Next, she should lie down and use the pads of her fingers to feel for lumps or other changes in her breasts. It is essential to use a circular motion, starting at the outer edges of the breast and working inward. She should also feel for lumps or changes in her armpits, as these can also be a sign of breast cancer.
It is important to note that BSE is not a replacement for mammography and clinical breast examination by a healthcare professional.
In conclusion, performing regular breast self-examination can help women become familiar with the normal feel and appearance of their breasts, and can help them identify any changes that may be a sign of breast cancer early on.
What is a Mammogram and how is it useful?
A mammogram is an X-ray imaging test that is used to screen for breast cancer.
Mammograms are recommended for women who are at average risk for breast cancer, starting at age 50 and continuing annually. Women who are at higher risk for breast cancer, such as those with a strong family history of the disease, may need to start screening earlier and/or have more frequent mammograms.
Mammograms can detect breast cancer in its early stages before it can be felt by a woman or her healthcare provider. Early detection can lead to more effective treatment and a better chance of survival for breast cancer patients.
What is a Colonoscopy, How is it beneficial?
A colonoscopy is a procedure used to examine the inside of the large intestine (colon) and rectum, typically used to screen for colon cancer or to investigate symptoms such as rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits.
Cytological screening of cervical cancer:
cytological screening, commonly known as a Pap test, is a screening method that is used to detect abnormal cells on the cervix that may indicate the presence of cervical cancer or precancerous changes. It is usually recommended for women between the ages of 21 and 65, and early detection can greatly increase the chances of survival for cervical cancer patients.
What are Tumour markers?
tumour markers are substances that are found at higher than normal levels in the blood of some people who have cancer. They are used to help diagnose cancer, monitor the progression of the disease, determine the response to treatment and predict the likelihood of recurrence. However, it's important to note that tumour markers can also be present in people who do not have cancer, and a high level of a marker alone is not enough to diagnose cancer.