Let's Talk About Breasts

Breasts, tits, rack, knockers, jugs...whatever you wish to refer to the two mammary glands dutifully planted on your chest, we are going to speak about them today.

 Courtesy of eduncovered.com

This may not be one of my most exciting topics, but it is definitely one of my most important. I feel I have a responsibility to use this platform to share knowledge that could potentially save a life so here goes.

In the UK, the month of October is dedicated to Breast Cancer Awareness.Breast cancer occurs when cells begin to divide and grow abnormally. If you cannot fathom why us Brits would dedicate a whole 31 days to breast cancer awareness, here are some facts that should jolt your reasoning into motion:

1. Every year nearly 55,000 people are diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK, that’s the equivalent of one person every 10 minutes
2. 1 in 8 women in the UK will develop breast cancer in their lifetime
3. Breast cancer is the second most common cause of death from cancer in women in the UK
4. Nearly 12,000 people die from breast cancer in the UK every year
5. Breast cancer also affects men, but it’s rare – around 400 men are diagnosed each year.

(Statistics are courtesy of Breast Cancer Care)

Please do note that these stats have nothing to do with breast shape or size!

My aim is not to scare monger but only to educate, and I feel we all have a duty to be aware. To bring it all home, I would love for you, if you are able to, to gather seven of your nearest and dearest girlfriends and female family members for a girly meetup. Once you are all together, look at those faces you love so much and cherish. According to the stats, one out of your group will develop this horrific disease  in their lifetime. It's a scary thought!

Why not get together over a nice meal and share some knowledge and good vibes?

But all hope is not lost, because I feel with education, faith and prayer all can be overcome! In light of this, I would love to share with you how you can examine yourself

There’s no right or wrong way to check your breasts for any changes. Try to get used to looking at and feeling your breasts regularly. You can do this in the bath or shower, when you use body lotion, or when you get dressed. There’s really no need to change your everyday routine. Just decide what you are comfortable with and what suits you best. Remember to check all parts of your breast, your armpits and up to your collarbone. (Info courtesy of Breast Cancer Care)

When you do check yourself, this is what you are looking out for.

(Infographic courtesy of Breast Cancer Care)

Again, I am not intending to plant seeds of fear. Besides, most abnormalities are not cancerous, but merely tissue swelling and cysts etc.  Lastly, please do spare some time to pray for cancer sufferers around the world and their families.

For more information on cancer awareness, what to do if you think you've got cancer, and ways to support cancer research, please visit  https://www.breastcancercare.org.uk/