When checking one’s breasts, the following changes should be noted and further assessed:
• Change in size or shape of the breast
• Breast lump
• Skin changes such as puckering or dimpling
• Redness or rash on the skin or nipple
• Change in the appearance of the nipple
• Nipple discharge
• Persistent pain in the breast or armpit
• Swelling in the armpit or collarbone
Any of the above-mentioned changes require further evaluation by a clinician. Imaging studies such as mammography and/or ultrasound may be requested, and if necessary, further evaluation with a needle biopsy may be performed for definitive assessment.
Breast screening
In South Africa, image-guided screening for breast cancer is carried out with mammography, performed annually from 40 years of age. Mammography is essential to detect signs of breast cancer that may not be palpable (i.e. clinically occult disease). In patients with dense breast tissue, the sensitivity of mammography is reduced and therefore supplementation with ultrasound is performed. In high-risk patients, in addition to mammography, screening for breast cancer may be performed with MRI. Breast cancer screening ultimately requires a personalised approach best suited to the individual’s age, cancer risk and breast density.
For more info and to book an appointment, contact ‘JUST FOR WOMEN’ Digital Mammography Centre – Lake, Smit and Partners on 087 310 4990 or find them on social media:
Instagram: @lakesmitpartners Facebook: @justforwomendurban