According to U.S. Breast Cancer Statistics, approximately 1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime, and more than 40,000 women will die from the disease.
These stats are quite alarming. We all know someone who has been affected by a form of cancer, and it's heartbreaking to hear their stories.
Early detection is often the best chance people have to treating the disease, but not everyone is able to get diagnosed in time.
The charity Breast Cancer Care wants to change that.
Breast Cancer Care has teamed up with Amazon's virtual assistant Alexa to create a guide that can help guide women through a breast check.
Clinical Nurse Specialist Addie Mitchell at Breast Cancer Care told The Sun that a majority of women don't regularly check their breasts, so having Alexa to guide them "will help empower many with the confidence to build this potentially lifesaving habit into their routine."
The new tool will share eight of the most common signs and symptoms of breast cancer, which may end up saving a life.
"Whatever your age it's so important to get to know your breasts, and if you do spot anything unusual "“ be it a lump, redness or an inverted nipple - get it checked out by your [doctor]," Mitchell added.
Women who have breast cancer will also get help from Alexa's new addition.
The leading charity have also shared their inspiration and tips on living with breast cancer, which can also help women adapt to life after the disease.
The most common symptom of breast cancer is a lump, but here are five other signs you should watch out for.
1. Discharge
If liquid oozes out of your nipple without putting any pressure on it, and you're not breastfeeding, it could be a sign of breast cancer.
Check with your doctor just in case, especially if the discharge is red.
2. Redness or Rashes
The skin around the nipple is very sensitive, but if you constantly have redness or feel itchy in this area, it could be a sign of something serious.
3. Swelling or Pain
Breast tissue can be found in areas around the breast, like the collarbone and armpits, so make sure you're paying attention to these areas of your body too.
If you notice swelling or constant pain around your nipples, collarbone, or armpits, talk to your doctor.
4. Skin Thickening
It's important to feel the texture of your skin in this area from time to time. If your skin starts to dimple or thicken, it could be a sign of the disease.
5. Inversion
If the shape or position of your nipple changes, for example, if it starts to invert, check with your doctor to see if there's something wrong.
[H/T: The Sun]
