To prevent breast cancer, women have been warned not to self-medicate when they experience any changes or pain around their breasts.
The convener and Lagos State Coordinator of the youth wing, Mrs Obatuga Modupeoluwa, in her address said the program aimed to educate participants on breast cancer’s symptoms and signs as well as preventative measures, such as doing a self-examination.
Also, Head of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Yaba Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Oluwatoyin Abiodun said ignorance is not a justification for skipping a medical checkup.
Oluwatoyin urged women to allow their spouses to touch and examine them for any indications of a lump in the breast.
She also appealed to the women to consistently participate in health awareness activities to improve their health.
“If you have money without good health, you have nothing. Please, allow your husband to check your breast for any sign of lump in your breast.
“Out of ignorance, a lot of women save money in their breasts not knowing they are killing themselves gradually and before they realise what is happening, they will contract cancer of the breast.”
In her lecture, Dr. Grace said one of the most recognised signs of breast cancer is the presence of a lump in the breast or under the armpit while adding that breast self-exams are a simple way to detect lumps.
According to her, breast cancer is a challenging and life-threatening disease that affects millions of women globally.
She explained that a lump in the breast or beneath the armpit is one of the most common indicators of breast cancer.
The healthcare consultant added that one simple way to detect lumps in the breasts is to examine oneself.
She also mentioned other symptoms, such as any changes in the breast’s size, redness in the area around the nipple, thickening or swelling of a portion of the breast, and discharge from the nipple other than breast milk, etc.
“Cancer has eaten deep into every part of some people’s body without them knowing. If you notice any symptoms go to the hospital because early detection saves life. Stay away from self-medication and always visit a specialist in a certified hospital for routine medical checkups. I repeat, avoid self-medication or agbo.
“A lump in the breast can be a potential indicator of breast cancer, many believe. However, several other signs are overlooked and this gives the cancer a chance to grow and spread rapidly.
“Hence it is important to know the different signs of breast cancer. Early detection and understanding of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer are crucial for timely diagnosis and effective treatment.
“While breast cancer can manifest in various ways, it is essential to be aware of the common symptoms and seek medical attention when any of these warning signs appear.
“Another symptom of breast cancer is changes in breast size or shape. If you notice one breast appearing noticeably different from the other or changes like swelling, dimpling, or puckering of the skin, it’s important to consult a doctor. These alterations can be indicative of an underlying issue, including breast cancer.
“Unintended weight loss can sometimes be a sign of more advanced breast cancer. When cancer spreads to other parts of the body, it can lead to changes in appetite and metabolism, resulting in weight loss. The guest speaker advised the women to minimise alcohol intake, give up smoking, exercise frequently, be aware of their family history, and manage stress, among other things, to prevent breast cancer.”
SOURCE: The Nation
