- [Narrator] You've seen
all the pink ribbons for breast cancer awareness, but when it comes to your own body, are you truly aware of the possible signs and symptoms of this common cancer? In the US, breast cancer is
the second most common cancer among people assigned female at birth. And one of the leading causes of death, everyone has breast tissue, which means anyone can
develop breast cancer. In fact, cis-gender women
are at especially high risk, as are transgender men
and nonbinary people who have not undergone a mastectomy. And although it's less common,
people assigned male at birth can develop breast cancer too. While hereditarTy factors can
contribute to your likelihood of getting breast cancer, the reality is that 90 to
95% of breast cancer cases are sporadic, meaning they're not related to any known genetic
predisposition to the disease. So it's important that you know what kind of changes to your body might be signs of breast cancer. By performing monthly breast self exams, you can become familiar with
the normal monthly changes in your breasts and be primed to notice any worrisome changes, make sure to do it at
the same time each month. If you menstruate, you
should do the self exam three to five days after your period ends. So what are the warning
signs of breast cancer? Pay attention to any new lumps
or thickening of the skin on your breast or underarm, even a lump the size of a pebble or a pea
can be a cause for concern. You may also feel a small
hardened area under the skin, not quite a lump, but not normal either. Be on the lookout for any
changes in the general size, shape, or contour of your breasts. Particularly if those changes happen on one side, but not the other. And tell your doctor
if you notice a change in the look or feel of the
skin on the breast or nipple, like dimpled or puckered skin, redness, a scaly texture or general inflammation. Pay attention to other
changes to the nipples too. Like if one nipple sinks inward, or if you notice a clear
or reddish fluid discharge, if you notice one or more of these signs, schedule an appointment
to talk to your doctor, keep in mind that most
lumps and abnormalities aren't cancer, but it's
important to get checked out. Doing regular breast
self exams is a great way to maintain breast health
and detect cancer early, when it's easier to treat
and more likely to be cured. So think pink and get
to know your breasts. Self-exams are an act of self-care and they just might save your life. (gentle music)
