This is why every woman should check her breasts | Stories behind the news

“In the Netherlands, 1 in 7 women is diagnosed with breast cancer,” says Carla van Gils. “Although the chances of survival have increased with the development of new technologies, more than 3,000 women still die each year from breast cancer.”

That’s too much, says ambassador Quinty Trustfull, known for coffee time. “It is therefore important to regularly check your breasts for changes, so that a possible diagnosis can be made in time.”

Changes in the breast

Breast cancer can take many different forms. The most common symptom is a lump in the breast. “A lump feels like a harder spot in the breast. This can occur anywhere in the breast, because breast cancer grows in the mammary glands,” explains Van Gils.

“If you were to divide a breast into quarters, the upper part of the breast on the outer side most often contains lumps, simply because there is more glandular tissue there. But that doesn’t mean you should only check there,” she warns.

Other symptoms of breast cancer include pits and dents in the skin, a change in the shape and size of the breast, a thick vein, a hardening or so-called orange peel. “Some women also say they feel a burning sensation inside,” adds Quinty Trustfull.

Also a change in the nipple can be an indication of breast cancer. Van Gils explains what that might look like: “A scab on the nipple, fluid from the nipple and a retracted nipple can all be reasons to see a doctor.”

Feel and look

You can not only feel these possible harbingers of breast cancer, as many people think, but you can also see them. That is why it is good to look at your breasts as well. “Every once in a while, stand in front of the mirror with your arms up and study your breasts,” explains Trustfull. “Once you become familiar with what they look like, you will quickly notice a difference. You can then see that breast cancer can change the shape of your breast.”

Be careful not to overdo it, they warn. “You really don’t have to check every day. Then you will no longer notice gradual changes,” explains Van Gils. “You feel or see that much better if you check your breasts once a month, for example.”

Be alert

If you notice a change in the breast, it is best to visit your doctor for a check-up. “Of course, an abnormality does not have to be cancer,” reassures Van Gils. “It can also be caused by something else, such as a cyst. If you notice a change, you can see if it still disappears after or during the cycle. However, it is important to be alert. The sooner you are there, the greater the chance of a successful treatment.”

The Pink Ribbon bracelet, the proceeds of which will go to breast cancer research, will be in stores until the end of 2021.

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