I'm 20 and constantly check my breasts for hard lumps and often think bones are cancer, but I can't really tell the difference. What do I need to feel for? Can I get cancer on my sternam or breast bone and does the breast bone go into the breast at all? Please help.
Cancer - 5 Answers
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1 :
Stop constantly checking your breasts or you will make them sore. Check them once a month after your period, in the shower. Soap them well and run your flat hand around your breast. Learn where all the usual lumps and bumps are. Any new ones, go to a doctor and have them checked. Ask your doctor to check them when you have your usual yearly checkup. The chances of you getting breast cancer at your age is so slim. Stop thinking about it, it will probably never happen. Just wanting to add for the benefit of the last poster - breast cancer is absolutely possible in a 20 year old. A three year old child has just recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. In Australia, there have been a number of very high profile women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer in their 20s. It is a miniscule chance, but the chance exists. Women of all ages should check their breast each month following their period. Screening mammograms are advised over the age of 50, but in Australia can be utilised over 40 free of charge. Vigilance is important for early detection. However, over checking and being obsessive about it is not in anyone's best interests.
2 :
You seem somewhat abnormally focused on breast cancer and, rather than answer your specific questions, I am going to suggest you write down everything you want to know and then visit your doctor and ask him/her. Also, I would suggest checking the phone book and see if there is a local Breast Cancer Action group in your area. Call them up and have a chat with them and get some good information. It sounds like all you have at the moment is fear and confusion. Get the real answers from the real experts; not here. Your questions are too important.
3 :
Your chance of getting breast cancer at your age is very very slim! Lumpy breasts are common among all women - hormone fluctuations cause a lot of 'lumpy' breasts. You are worrying uneedlessy at your age, altho, it is a good idea to check your breasts reguarly after your period to get to know your body. A cancerous breast lump usually is very hard and in the beginning is NOT painful. If you are sexually active, you should see your gynecologist once a year and you can tell him/her to check your breasts and get advice and literature about how to examine your breasts. Doing this, might help you not worry too much. I wish you well.
4 :
I think you are not able to check yourself properly,consult a doctor.Admiral
5 :
Carolyn please listen. First of all, cancer in a 20 yrs is 0-none. Your breast are naturally lumpy and no matter where you touch, you will feel these lumps due to your hormones right now. From the onset of puberty well into the 20's this happens. Of course you can get cancer in those bones, anyone can, but the way you sound so worried, it seems that you are too obsessed about breast cancer. Don't worry, Stop doing self exams and start again around 35-40. Wait until your Dr tells you it's time too. And they will. Most women are diagnosed with breast cancer during or after menopause. So you can relax. You are not in any of those categories. Anything at any age is possible, but also improbable. Hope this helps
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