Breast Cancer is something we don't want to think about, but it affects most of us. In fact, even though most of you know someone affected by the disease, I bet most of you can't even tell me the last time you've done a self exam.
Before I go further, I'll give you a quick glimpse into my first time doing a self exam. I was perched on the counter of my bathroom, trying to read the steps from a pamphlet my family doctor gave me that I had taped to the mirror in front of me. For some reason I had a foot propped on a foot stool and as I raised my left arm over my head I couldn't help but laugh thinking of Mick Jagger on stage singing “Checkin' up on My Baby.” I'm sure I looked like an awkward teenager trying to get to first base, but, something is better than nothing, and I was shocked to find out that the self breast exam I had dreaded for so long was so easy to do.
Self exam and early detection are key to beating the disease, and The Canadian Breast Cancer foundation has made it easier for busy Mom's and Dad's to remember when to schedule their self check and clinical exams by creating a free app that is available by clicking here, or searching “Canadian Breast Cancer” in iTunes. The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation BC-Yukon has a similar app called 'Don't forget to check' that is also available in iTunes or by clicking here. The app is incredibly easy to use, and is compatible with iPhone, iPod and iPad devices.
When you first open the app you will see the reminders for your next self check, next clinical exam, and your next mammogram. They are easy to set, and even better, they integrate with your calendar to remind you when it's time to perform your exam.
When you're in the app, clicking on 'Be Breast Aware' will walk you through the 5 steps of completing your self exam.
Step 1: Know how your breasts normally look and feel
Step 2: Know what changes to look for
Step 3: Look and feel for changes
Step 4: Report any changes to a doctor
Step 5: Go for a free mammogram if you are of the appropriate age or it is recommended by a doctor
The steps are easy to follow, and they explain in easy to understand terms and pictures how to know what changes to look for, and how to check for them.
Finally, there is a link in the app to donate to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation that will take you to their website which outlines the many options for donation, which I hope (nudge nudge) most of you will do after downloading the app today.
You can find the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation app by searching iTunes apps for “Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation.” It's free to download, is compatible with iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad, and is available in English and French.
I highly recommend the app for those of you who have never gotten the pamphlet, and even for those who may need a refresher.
So, what are you waiting for? This free download could save your breasts, and your life.
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