KINGSTON, Jamaica — The South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA) is urging women to take charge of their breast health through regular self-examinations and screenings during the month of October.

This initiative emphasises the importance of early detection in the fight against breast cancer and aims to promote awareness of breast health among women.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Jamaican women, with 1,208 new cases reported in Jamaica in 2020. A breast lump is typically the first sign noticed when an individual seeks investigation.

Regular screening for breast cancer is recommended starting at age 40. Women can perform self-breast exams at home, and clinical breast examinations are available during visits to health facilities. If an abnormality is detected, further investigations and referrals for treatment can be arranged as necessary.

Regional Health Education and Promotion Officer at SERHA, Charmin McKoy emphasised the importance of breast health as a vital part of women’s overall health.

“Women should be equipped with the information and resources necessary to check for changes early. Screening, education, and awareness can save lives,’’ she shared.

Steps to conduct breast self-examination:

1. Stand in front of the mirror and look at the skin of the breast. Look for dimpling, scaling, redness or any discolouration of the skin;
2. Examine the shape of your breasts, first with both hands pressing behind the head, and then placed firmly on the hips;
3. Raise your left arm and place the left hand behind your head. Use three or four fingers of the right hand to explore the left breast in a circular pattern, starting from the outer sections of the breast and moving towards the nipple. (Remember to also explore the underarm, where some breast tissue, in the tail of the breast is located). Check for any lumps or masses;
4. Squeeze the nipple lightly to check for any discharge from the nipple;
5. Repeat steps three and four, this time with the right arm raised and the right hand placed behind the head, using the fingers of the left hand to explore the right breast.

If any lumps, discharge or skin abnormalities are noted on breast self-examination, please go to your health care practitioner for a clinical breast exam and referral as needed for further investigations.

Women are encouraged to visit SERHA’s website or the Jamaica Cancer Society for more information on upcoming events, resources, and tips for maintaining breast health.