Even if you have a breast screen every 2 years, it is still important to be breast aware because breast cancer can develop at any time. This includes the time in-between screening appointments.
You don’t need to be an expert or use a special technique for breast awareness; simply take the time to get to know the normal look and feel of your breasts as part of everyday activities like showering, dressing, putting on body lotion or simply looking in the mirror.
Knowing what is normal will help you detect any new breast changes.
Things you should look for include:
- a new lump in your breasts
- a change in the size or shape of your breast
- a change to the nipple, such as crusting, an ulcer, or the nipple pulled in
- a discharge from your nipple that is red, brown or clear in colour
- a change in the skin of your breast such as redness, dimpling or puckered skin
- a new pain that is in one area of the breast
If you experience any of these symptoms, do not book a breast screen at BreastScreen SA – we recommend you see your doctor as soon as possible. Most breast changes are not due to cancer, but it’s important to see a doctor to be sure.
Screening mammography is not an appropriate test for the investigation of new or changing symptoms as different imaging tests are needed. These tests include diagnostic (not screening) mammography, ultrasound and/or a biopsy and clinical exam to fully investigate the symptom. These tests are not provided at the time of screening with BreastScreen SA and should be organised by your doctor or GP.