As Nigeria joins the global campaign for Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, here is a practical, step-by-step guide on how individuals, especially women can check their breasts for early signs of cancer.
In a video posted by the popular health advocate and content creator, Chinonso Egemba, known as Aproko Doctor, on his social media platforms, the doctor emphasised the importance of self-examination, noting that early detection remains one of the most effective ways to prevent breast cancer deaths.
He began by explaining that the first step involves visually inspecting the breasts in front of a mirror.
“One of the first things you need is to actually see the breast you are looking at.
“So, remove your clothes, stand in front of a mirror, put your hands akimbo and squeeze your hip.
“You do this to tighten your chest muscles. If your chest muscle becomes stronger, you can easily notice any dimpling in your breast. Please, pay attention to that,” Aproko said.
He then demonstrated how to physically examine the breast using the fingers.
“Raise one hand and place it behind your head, then use the other hand to feel your breast using a pattern you can remember, round and round, not forgetting the armpit.Related News
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“The lymph nodes in the armpit are responsible for draining the breast, so you also need to check them,” the health creator said.
Aproko Doctor also stressed the need to check for nipple discharge, swelling, or any visible change in the breast’s shape or skin texture.
“Please don’t forget to squeeze your nipple so that you can notice any discharge like blood.
“If your skin has red, purple, or orange patches, or if your nipple starts going inward instead of outward, please pay attention,” he warned.
He noted that while not all changes indicate cancer, individuals should be familiar with their bodies and promptly consult a doctor if they notice anything unusual.
“Am I saying all these changes mean cancer? No. But you need to know what your breast looks like so nothing catches you by surprise.
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“Send this video to your man too, men can also have breast cancer. Let him remove his eyes from your breast and focus on his own,” he concluded.
PUNCH Online had reported that experts recommend that women should examine their breasts monthly, ideally a few days after their menstrual cycle, and report any unusual lumps, discharges, or skin changes to a healthcare professional.
