What are Breasts?
The breasts are medically known as the mammary glands.
They are located in front of the pectoral muscles.
In females they produce milk, while in males they are inert.
What is Breast Cancer?
The development of malignancy in either of the breasts, is known as breast cancer.
Breast cancer effects women far more than men, and in fact in males it is considered as a rare cancer. It has been found to be associated with obesity, and the corresponding elevated estrogen levels.
Local Statistics
In 2020 there were 403 new breast cancer cases in females, in contrast to 0 in males.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Lump in the breast
Nipple turning inward
Nipple discharge
Sore and/or rash around the nipple
Hardness, redness, and/or swelling at the nipple or the surrounding skin
Small bumps in the armpit
Getting Tested
It is important to attend check-ups as instructed by your medical doctor, particularly if you have been identified to have a higher risk of breast cancer. It is also possible to perform a self-breast examination at home by following the below steps:
Inspect the breast in front of a mirror in three main positions: arms at side, arms over head, and with hands placed on hips while leaning forward. Look out for changes in, nipples, texture, shape, contour, direction, and swelling at the breast.
Examine the breast by using the first few finger pads. Press on the entire breast, starting from the armpit, to the cleavage, and then to under the breast in a spiral motion. A deep pressure should be used to identify any lumps or hardness.
Squeeze the nipple between the thumb and the index finger and look out for any discharge.
Written by: Miguel Sammut & Malcolm Camilleri