Breast Cancer Awareness Month
This October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so we want to take a moment to spotlight and offer some helpful tips for breast cancer prevention.
According to Cancer Research UK, 1 in 2 people in the UK will develop cancer at some point in their lives. Early detection is one of the best ways to combat cancer, which is why we're here to encourage and remind you to perform regular self-examinations.
THE IMPORTANCE OF SELF-CHECKS
These examinations should be carried out by any adult individuals who might be at risk of breast cancer. The National Breast Cancer Foundation explains that while mammograms can detect cancer before a lump becomes noticeable, breast self-exams help you become familiar with the normal appearance and feel of your breasts. By doing this regularly, you’ll be more likely to notice any changes early, giving you the best chance of addressing potential issues sooner.
But how to carry out these examinations?
In the Shower
Using the pads of your three middle fingers, examine the entire breast and armpit area. Apply light, medium, and firm pressure as you check for new lumps, thickening, hardened knots, or other changes in the breast tissue.
In Front of a Mirror
Visually inspect your breasts by looking for changes in shape or contour. Pay attention to any dimpling, swelling, or redness, which may indicate a risk.
Lying Down
When lying down, the breast tissue spreads evenly along the chest wall. Place a pillow under your right shoulder and put your right arm behind your head. Using your left hand's three middle fingers, check your right breast and armpit area, applying different pressure levels. Feel for lumps, thickening, or changes, and gently squeeze the nipple to check for discharge. Repeat on your left breast.
Coppafeel encourages everyone to ‘Feel it on the First”: a self-examination that becomes part of your regular routine.
Remember, all genders have breast tissues so everyone should be checking.
HOW AKT PRODUCTS CAN HELP
Using AKT’s range of products—like The Body Wash Concentrate, Conditioning Balm, or Deodorant Balm—can assist with self-exams. Being in close contact with your underarms and body while massaging in these products offers an opportunity to feel for any lumps or anomalies that could indicate a problem. Getting familiar with your body’s usual feel is an important strategy in detecting changes early.
Look out for changes in size, shape, and skin like puckering or redness, lumps, new pain that isn't regularly experienced, changes in nipples, and swelling. It’s important to feel wherever there is breast tissue so feel right up to your collarbone and into your armpits (while you massage AKT’s products around!).
If you notice any changes monitor it for a week and book an appointment with your doctor to get it checked out.
You can find more information on breast cancer here:
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder to prioritise your overall health, not just through physical exams but by staying mindful of your body and any changes. Regular self-exams empower you to take control of your health, but it’s equally important to maintain a balanced lifestyle with healthy eating, regular exercise, and stress reduction. Early detection can save lives, and knowing your body is the first step. Whether you’re using AKT products or simply taking a moment to check yourself, small acts of awareness make a big difference.
