Around 1,450 women in Northern Ireland  are diagnosed with breast cancer every year – approximately 80% of these are over the age of 50. But it can happen to both younger women and a small number of men. So whatever your age, being breast aware – knowing what is normal for you – makes sense.

Being Breast Aware Checklist

1. Look at it and feel your breasts 

Look for changes. Stand in front of the mirror:

• Arms by your side
• Arms raised above or behind your head
• Hands on hips with elbows forward and chest muscles tensed

Feel for changes. When lying down or in the shower / bath, with a soapy hand:

• Feel each breast in turn
• Keep your fingers together and flat
• Press firmly over entire breast, nipple and armpit
• Check the nipple for discharge

Don’t forget to check under the armpits and right up to your collar bone.

2. Know what changes to look for

Anything that is not normal for you:

• A lump
• Thickening of the skin
• A dimple or puckering of the skin
• Change in size or shape of one breast
• Any unusual sensation / pain / discomfort in one breast
• Veins becoming more visible
• Discharge from the nipple (especially blood-stained)
• Change in nipple shape / inverted nipple
• Persistent rash on a breast

3. Know what is normal for you 

Two thirds of breast cancers are discovered by women themselves. Knowing your breasts- what is normal for you – and being aware of the key signs and symptoms of breast cancer is vital for early detection.

If you have a monthly period it is best to check your breasts a week after your period. Some women find that before and during their period, their breasts can be sore, tender or feel slightly lumpy which may cause unnecessary worry.

4. Talk to your GP about any new breast changes right away

If you have a breast concern, don’t delay – make an appointment to talk it over with your doctor as soon as possible. If you need to have some tests, he/she can refer you to a breast clinic for the right type of help.

5. Go for breast screening when you are 50 or over 

Of the 1,300 women diagnosed with breast cancer each year in Northern Ireland, almost a third are picked up through the breast screening service.

A screening mammogram is an x-ray of your breast taken from two different angles. The screening is carried out by a female radiographer and will last no longer than five minutes.

All women between 50 and 70 are invited every three years for free breast screening. If you are over 70 you won’t receive a postal reminder but it is important to continue to make appointments with your local screening centre.

You do not need to have any symptoms to use this service. Remember it is important to be breast aware in between your appointments.