Breast Cancer Awareness: Know Your Body, Check Your Breasts

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and it's a good reminder to pause and ask yourself a simple question: when did you last check your breasts?

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, and around 1 in 7 women will be diagnosed in their lifetime. But there is hopeful news. The earlier breast cancer is found, the more treatable it is. Knowing what's normal for you, and acting quickly if something changes, can make a real difference.

At Healthy U Ladies Gym, we care about your strength, your confidence and your health, and that includes looking after your body from the inside out.

Why checking your breasts matters

Many breast changes are found by women themselves, simply because they know their bodies best. There's no special technique or medical training required, and you don't need to do it perfectly. The goal is to get familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, so you can spot anything unusual.

Most breast changes turn out not to be cancer. But it's always better to get something checked than to wonder and worry.

How to check your breasts: Touch, Look, Check

A helpful way to remember is Touch, Look, Check.

Touch: Feel your breasts, the whole area, including up to your collarbone and under your armpits. You can use whichever method feels natural: in the shower with soapy hands, lying down, or in front of a mirror. Use the flat of your fingers and feel gently, then with a little more pressure.

Look: Look at your breasts in the mirror. Check them with your arms by your sides, then raised above your head. Notice their size, shape and colour, and the appearance of your skin and nipples.

Check: Make it a regular habit. There's no "right" day or number of times, but pick a routine that works for you, such as the same time each month. If you still have periods, many women find it helpful to check at the same point in their cycle. If you no longer have periods, choose a date that's easy to remember, like the first of the month.

What to look out for

Changes to be aware of include:

• A new lump, thickening or bumpy area in one breast or armpit

• A change in the size or shape of your breast

• Skin changes, such as dimpling, puckering, redness or a rash

• Changes to your nipple, such as it turning inwards, changing shape or having a rash or crusting

• Any discharge from your nipple that isn't milk

• Swelling or a lump in your armpit or around your collarbone

• Pain in your breast or armpit that doesn't go away

A lump isn't the only sign, which is why looking as well as feeling is so important.

Found a change? Don't wait

If you notice anything unusual, make an appointment with your GP as soon as you can. Try not to put it off, even if you feel embarrassed, busy or worried about what they might say. GPs see breast concerns all the time, and the sooner you're seen, the better.

Remember:

• Most breast changes are not cancer, but they should always be checked.

• You don't need to wait for your next screening invite.

• Going to your GP is never wasting anyone's time.

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Breast screening

In England, women aged 50 to 71 are invited for breast screening (a mammogram) every three years. Screening can spot cancers too small to see or feel, so please attend when you're invited. If you've missed an appointment or aren't sure if you're due, contact your GP surgery and they can help. Checking your breasts between screenings is still important.

Looking after yourself

There's no way to completely prevent breast cancer, but some lifestyle habits can support your overall health and may help lower your risk:

• Stay active. Regular physical activity is linked to a lower risk of breast cancer, and it's good for your mood, strength and energy too.

• Maintain a healthy weight. This matters especially after menopause.

• Limit alcohol. The less you drink, the lower your risk.

• Eat a balanced diet. Plenty of fruit, veg, fibre and wholegrains supports your health.

• Know your family history. If breast or ovarian cancer runs in your family, speak to your GP.

Supporting each other

Breast cancer touches so many of us, whether it's our own diagnosis, a friend, a mum, a sister or a colleague. Awareness month is also about community: checking in with the women in your life, sharing what you've learned, and reminding each other to book appointments and attend screenings.

If you've been affected by breast cancer, you are not alone, and you are always welcome at Healthy U. Whether you're in treatment, recovering, or supporting someone you love, we're here with a friendly face and a space that's yours.

This October at Healthy U

Why not make a pact with a friend or a gym buddy to check your breasts this month and set a monthly reminder on your phone? Share this blog with the women in your life, and tell them why it matters.

For more information and support, visit Breast Cancer Now or the NHS website.

This article is for general information only and isn't a substitute for medical advice. If you notice any changes to your breasts, please speak to your GP.

Love The HUG Team x