5 minute breast self-exam
What is breast cancer ?
Breast cancer is a disorder in which certain cells multiply and form a mass called a tumor.
There are many different types, which can be detected early through screening mammography.
A few simple, everyday gestures can help prevent breast cancer: breast self-palpation, for example, can help identify abnormalities and detect cancer. It’s important to be vigilant in the face of any change.
Risk factors
alcohol, excess weight,
tobacco, sedentary lifestyle
80 %
of breast cancers develop after age 50
1%
of breast cancers occur in men
Self-palpation is best done away from menstruation.
1
Facing a mirror
Arms up
Check for :
creases
redness
liquid or blood
hollows or bumps
2
With 3 fingers
Make small circles around the breast
Don’t forget to palpage :
- under the collarbone
- the sternum
- between breast and armpit
During palpation :
Everything is ok
Liquid emerges
3
I gently pinch the nipple
During palpation :
Everything is ok
Liquid emerges
4
Repeat on the other breast
If you notice anything unusual, don’t panic and consult your doctor promptly.
A breast palpation by a doctor is recommended every year from the age of 25. If you notice anything unusual, don’t panic – consult a doctor as soon as possible.
9 out of 10 lumps are benign
A worldwide initiative !
These posters are designed to encourage a little regular ritual: self-palpation. Indeed, prevention of this type of disease relies heavily on regular screening. The posters have been displayed in strategic locations in Paris, such as changing rooms in gymnasiums and swimming pools, ideal places for breast self-palpation.
The success of this initiative has sparked the interest of many Rotaract clubs worldwide. They have expressed a desire to replicate the idea.
Today, these posters have been used in 11 countries and translated into over 8 different languages, including Romanian, English, Spanish, Italian, Sinhalese, Arabic, Armenian, Hindi & Assamese. This international distribution reinforces our collective commitment to the fight against breast cancer.
An initiative of Rotaract Paris Ouest.
Illustrations ©SantéBD
SantéBD develops accessible resources to explain health, available free of charge on santebd.org
Contents approved by Syndicat National des Gynécologues Obstétriciens de France, with the support of the La ligue contre le cancer.
