Taking steps to prevent ill-health is the best way to look after your body. Regularly checking yourself, knowing your own ‘normal’ and actively participating in health screening programmes allows you to take preventative measures and, if necessary, have the most time possible to receive treatment.
Health checks
An NHS Health Check is a free check-up of your cardiovascular health. It can tell you whether you’re at higher risk of getting certain health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease or stroke.
This screening programme is targeted at 40-74 year olds as this is the best time to spot early signs of stroke, kidney disease and heart disease. The check informs you about your potential risks so you can make positive changes to reduce your future risks. Everyone who is eligible may receive an invitation every five years, so when yours arrives make sure you don’t miss the opportunity.
Self-checking
Breasts: It is important to regularly check your breasts at home and if you find something unusual talk to your doctor. Most changes are harmless but it is always best to get it checked out.
Symptoms to look and feel for when checking your breasts or chest include:
- a lump or swelling in your breast, chest or armpit
- a change in the skin of your breast, such as dimpling (it may look like orange peel) or redness, which may be harder to see on black or brown skin
- a change in size or shape of 1 or both breasts, or either side of your chest – it’s common for breasts to be different sizes, but check for any changes that are not normal for you
- nipple discharge (if you’re not pregnant or breastfeeding), which may have blood in it
- a change in the shape or look of your nipple, such as it turning inwards (inverted nipple) or a rash on it (it may look like eczema)
- sores or ulcers on your chest
What to do if you are worried about unusual changes
Checking your vulva: Everyone’s vulva is unique, and it’s important to know what’s normal for you so you can be aware of any changes – no matter how small – to potentially catch cancer early, when it’s more treatable. For tips on checking your vulva at home, visit The Eve Appeal.
Period tracking: Abnormal vaginal bleeding and blood-stained discharge are key symptoms of three of the five gynaecological cancers: womb, cervical and vaginal, and a less common symptom of ovarian cancer. Most people who experience abnormal bleeding will not have cancer, however tracking your period to become more familiar with your cycle will help you recognise any unusual symptoms that you can get checked by your doctor.
