Dr. Anjali Malik, a breast radiologist, recently spoke to Newsweek about the importance of understanding one’s own body when it comes to breast health. According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, with the likelihood increasing by 0.6% annually in recent years, particularly among younger women. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women, with approximately one in forty patients succumbing to the disease. Early detection is key, as chances of successful treatment increase with timely diagnosis.

Dr. Malik emphasized the significance of self-examination in recognizing signs of potential cancer. “It’s crucial to know what is normal for you,” she explained. “Without that baseline, it’s challenging to identify anything unusual. Breasts can naturally have lumps and bumps; if you think every lump requires treatment, it could drive you to distraction.”

She advises women to be vigilant about any new lumps or changes, noting whether they are movable or fixed, and to pay attention to unusual warmth or recurring changes. Dr. Malik also suggests monitoring the skin on the breasts and underarms for any alterations in color, texture, or the presence of dimpling or discharge.

Pain in the breasts is the most common reason women seek medical advice, she noted. It’s important to assess whether the pain is persistent, unresponsive to interventions, and whether it worsens over time. “Every person’s experience is unique, influenced by where the cancer starts and how the cells develop,” she said.

Importantly, not all lumps are malignant. “Some lumps may feel smooth and movable, and that doesn’t necessarily mean a visit to the doctor is required; those could simply be benign,” Dr. Malik reassured.

She highlighted the importance of effective self-exams in monitoring changes. During a self-examination, women should raise their arms to slightly stretch the breast tissue, making it easier to detect true lumps while distinguishing them from normal ligaments or tissue.

Dr. Malik recommends starting self-exams at the sternum and moving outwards toward the sides, then under the arms, and including the area beneath the breasts and around the nipples.

As for how often women should perform self-exams, she suggests checking around day 14 of a typical 28-day menstrual cycle for optimal results.