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home previous page	Breast Problems   The phrase "breast self-examination" is often abbreviated to BSE, not to be confused with bovine spongiform encephalitis! There has been some debate about the validity of BSE, and some have suggested the phrase self awareness instead of self examination. So the slogan "Be breast aware" has been coined. Really though, it doesn't matter what you call it, as long as you do it. The important thing is to notice any changes in the breasts. Natural changes in the breast tissue occur during pregnancy and before a period, but if these changes are extreme and cause problems, have a chat with your doctor. Breast disease can be divided into benign and malignant conditions. Benign breast problems Mastalgia, or breast pain. This rarely occurs with breast cancer. Nodularity, or lumpiness in the breast tissue. Fibroadenoma - a mobile breast lump - sometimes called a "breast mouse" because it moves around easily! Cysts, which are filled with straw-coloured liquid. Mastitis, which means inflammation of the breast. Abscess, which can be associated with infection or breast feeding. Cancer of the breast Breast cancer is unusual under the age of 35. Over this age, if you find a breast lump, see your doctor, for an examination. If the doctor thinks it is appropriate, further investigations will be arranged at a specialist breast clinic. Usually you will be seen within two weeks by the breast specialist, and will have a full assessment, including examination, ultrasound scan, mammography and fine needle biopsy, and then a further review with the specialist, all at the one visit. So you will know by the time you leave the clinic whether you do in fact have breast cancer (and will be given a date for admission to hospital for treatment before you leave) or, hopefully, that the lump is benign and no further action is necessary.