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Health

24th Oct 2021

The viral photo that can help women detect early signs of breast cancer

Trine Jensen-Burke

early signs of breast cancer

We are nearing the end of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

However, that does not mean we should stop checking our breasts regularly. Or stop encouraging other women to do the same.

Understanding what’s normal in your body and becoming aware of any changes early is viral when it comes to detecting early signs of breast cancer, and vastly improve your chances of surviving the disease.

Regular home checks and self-examinations are key, but do you really know what to look for?

A couple of years ago, this photo from the Worldwide Breast Cancer organization’s Know Your Lemons campaign went viral – and in the process, showed so many women that you don’t have to wait for a lump to appear to realise something is up with your boobs and you should get it checked out.

The photo shows 12 different lemons representing breasts, with each displaying a different sign that can indicate the presence of breast cancer. From skin erosion to a growing vein, dimpling to a thick mass, there are plenty of ways to try to spot the disease.

Although the last lemon reminds us that cancer can also be invisible to the naked eye.

Remember, if you even slightly suspect something’s up, head to the doctor to get checked out ASAP.