BREAST SELF EXAMINATION – WHY? Why examine your own breasts? Because Breast Self-Examination (BSE) is a life-saving habit. It is the best defense we have against breast cancer – and breast cancer is the number one cancer killer of women. One of every 11 women (9 percent) will develop breast cancer at some time; but with early detection and prompt treatment as many as 85 percent can survive. And BSE is the key to early detection. The information that follows will help you to learn HOW and WHEN to perform BSE properly, and WHAT to look for. BSE IS FOR WOMEN OF ALL AGES If you are in your teens, you should practice BSE as soon as your breasts start to develop; as you continue monthly BSE throughout puberty, you will become familiar with your normal breast structure and learn to notice unusual changes. As an adult woman, you should continue BSE throughout your life, during pregnancy and after menopause. Whatever your age, NOW is the right time to begin practicing BSE. It is never too late to begin! BSE BY THE NUMBERS – COUNT 1 TO 10 |
