Self-Breast Exams: How Early Detection Can Save Your Life

By: Jay Dee, MPH

Feel on Your Breasts—It Can Save Your Life

Each year, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, along with 1 in 1,000 men (team, Key Statistics for Breast Cancer , 2024).

Black women are at a higher risk of developing Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)—and often at a younger age than white women (Saenz, 2022).

What is Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)?

Triple-Negative Breast Cancer is a type of breast cancer where the tumor cells do not have estrogen or progesterone receptors and do not overproduce the HER2 protein. That means common treatments like hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or HER2-targeting drugs don’t work, making TNBC more difficult to treat and often more aggressive (team, Triple-negative Breast Cancer , 2023).

Why Early Detection Matters

The higher rate of TNBC, breast cancer tends to be more aggressive in Black women, and outcomes are often more severe. Although only 5–10% of breast cancers are hereditary, genetic testing like the BRCA1 and BRCA2 tests can identify your risk and help you make proactive decisions (Saenz, 2022).

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Regular self-exams help you spot anything unusual. Look for:

• Dimpling of the skin

• Redness or swelling

• Inverted nipples

• Rashes on or around the nipple

• Nipple discharge

• New lumps in your 30s

  
  

How to Perform a Self-Breast Exam

You are more likely to detect changes in your breasts before your doctor does. That’s why monthly self-breast exams are essential. Here's how to check:

1. Lie down or stand upright in the shower.

2. Raise your left arm over your head.

3. Use your right hand to press gently but firmly in a circular motion over your left breast.

4. Then press in an up-and-down motion, covering the entire breast area.

5. Don’t forget to press toward your armpit—lumps can form there too.

6. Switch sides and repeat.

   
   

Apply enough pressure to feel deep tissue, but not so hard that it causes pain.

Your Body, Your Awareness

It’s common for Black women to have naturally lumpy breasts, but after age 30, new lumps should not be forming. If you feel anything new, call your doctor immediately.

You know your body better than anyone else.Touching your breasts is simple, free, and can save your life. Check yourself. Teach your loved ones. Keep the conversation going.

Until Next Time,

The Vagina Liberator

FAQs Self-Breast Exams:

Q: How do I perform a self-breast exam?

A: Raise your arm, use circular and up-and-down motions over your entire breast, and check toward your armpit for lumps or changes.

Q: What is Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)?

A: TNBC is a type of breast cancer where cells lack estrogen and progesterone receptors and do not overproduce HER2, making it more aggressive and harder to treat.

Q: Are Black women at higher risk for breast cancer?

A: Yes. Black women are more likely to develop TNBC, often at younger ages, and may face more aggressive outcomes.

Q: When should I see a doctor?

A: If you notice any new lumps, nipple changes, or unusual discharge—especially after age 30—contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Q: Can genetic testing help?

A: Yes. BRCA1 and BRCA2 testing can identify hereditary risk and guide preventive steps to protect your health.