To notice any deviations, it is first necessary to understand what is normal. Although at age 20 it may seem premature to seriously think about breast cancer, especially since standard mammograms are usually recommended much later for women with average risk, caring for breast health begins long before the first examination.
The simplest way to start is to learn to recognize your individual norm. The breasts naturally undergo changes throughout life and can feel different during various phases of the menstrual cycle. Knowing how the breasts usually look and feel increases the likelihood of noticing real changes.
Although a lump is one of the most well-known symptoms, breast cancer can manifest in other ways. Before you can detect problems, you need to know what is considered normal.
How to Understand What Is Normal For You
Breast awareness does not necessarily have to turn into a complicated monthly ritual. Regularly take a few minutes to examine and palpate your breasts, including the armpit area and the area closer to the collarbone. This can be done in the shower, while getting dressed, or at any other convenient time.
The goal of this examination is not to self-diagnose, but simply to get accustomed to your own breasts so that you can notice any changes.
What to Look Out For:
New lump or thickening: It can appear in the breast itself, the upper part of the breast, or in the armpit. Most lumps in the breast are not malignant, but any new or unusual lump requires checking.
Skin changes: Look for signs of dimpling, retraction, thickening, rash, or other texture changes. A sign of concern can also be the appearance resembling an orange peel.
Change in size or shape: Although breasts are naturally not identical, note any new or unexplained change in one of the breasts.
Nipple changes: A nipple that suddenly retracts, develops a rash, or changes in any other way needs evaluation.
Unusual nipple discharge: Discharge can have many causes, but spontaneous discharge, especially if bloody or clear and the woman is not breastfeeding, should be checked.
Redness or irritation: Unexplained skin changes that do not go away should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Persistent pain: Breast pain is common and often related to hormonal fluctuations. Nevertheless, persistent or unexplained pain in the breast or armpit should be assessed.
Swelling around the armpit or collarbone: A new growth or lump in these areas should not be ignored.
Don't Wait for a Lump to Appear
Finding any change does not mean you have breast cancer. Hormonal changes, cysts, and other benign conditions can cause many of the same symptoms.
It is important not to try to figure out the cause yourself. If you notice a new or persistent change, schedule an appointment with a doctor or another specialist.
You should not wait for the next scheduled check-up or the age of regular screening. Women with a strong family history or other risk factors may also need to start screening earlier or follow a different examination plan, so it is necessary to discuss your individual risk with a healthcare professional.
For women with average risk, routine mammography usually starts later than twenty years old, but this does not mean that breast health cannot be addressed in the interim between examinations.
Make Breast Awareness a Habit
Breast awareness regarding breast cancer at age twenty does not mean living in fear or excessive self-examination. It means knowing your body well enough to recognize when something has changed.
During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, take a few minutes to check your condition.
Know What Is Normal For You
And if something feels or looks different and it doesn't go away, seek a check-up. You do not have to wait until you are 40 to start paying attention to this.
