When it comes to breast cancer awareness, do you feel like you need to be in your 40s to start reading up? Well that shouldn’t be the case because it is important to be aware and to take precautions right from the start. You’ll be surprised to know that some women are diagnosed with breast cancer before they reach 40. What we’re trying to say is don’t dismiss the possibility, instead be prepared to tackle it with the right knowledge. Today, we are talking about what someone in their 20s or even 30s should know or do when it comes to breast cancer awareness and check-ups.
Read Up
There are many research papers that outline how breast cancer is caused. To summarize we would say that when cells divide and grow at an abnormal rate, they form lumps that can become cancerous. So, what essentially happens is these abnormal cells from inside the milk ducts or lobules break out into nearby breast tissue and when these cancerous cells grow and multiply uncontrollably, they form a malignant tumor within the breast.
Talk to Your Doctor
Even though it may be very early to detect or carry out any tests, you can tell your doctor about your medical history along with details about any of your family members who have had breast cancer. These are called non-modifiable risk factors, which include your age, family history, race and so on.
Examine Yourself
Even though tests can indicate whether you have breast cancer or not, the first step you can do regularly is to check yourself. If you notice any change, you can talk to your doctor about it. You have to check for lumps on your breast or under your arm, notice the shape and size of your breast, if there’s any discharge or skin dimpling which is noticeable when your skin’s texture resembles that of an orange peel. Remember, no change is too insignificant, always talk to your doctor about it.
Healthy Living
While you can’t control whether you will be diagnosed with breast cancer or not, what you can do is choose a healthy lifestyle to reduce the potential risk of breast cancer. An active lifestyle, a balanced diet, no smoking and controlled alcohol. And manage stress, because at the end of the day it is definitely not worth it.
If you or someone you know is in their 20s or 30s, don’t forget to share this with them!
