Twelve lemons for twelve symptomsone by one those of breast cancer that it is good for women to keep in mind, overcoming every taboo: it is Know Your Lemons, Know your lemonsa breast cancer prevention campaign that in 2017 – the year it was launched – was among the most viral posts of that year.
But even today, that whimsical image – designed for the non-profit organization founded by Corrine Ellsworth BeaumontWorldwide Breast Cancer and also accompanied by a specific app currently available in 32 languages – it is extremely effective and aims to show, through 12 lemons, in which cases it is appropriate to go to the doctor for a breast check-up.
According to the report “cancer numbers in Italy I 2023”, Breast cancer is the most common female cancerrepresenting 30.0% of all tumors in women, and it is estimated that 55,900 new breast tumors will be diagnosed in Italy in 2023. In the coming decades, it is estimated that the absolute annual number of new oncological diagnoses in Italy will increase, on average, by 1.3% per year in men and by 0.6% per year in women. For breast cancer the increase is estimated at +0.2% per year.
Although subcutaneous lump is the most common symptom of breast cancer, they are there other signals that can occur. In any case, it is a good idea to undergo a mammogram, which is the only test capable of revealing the presence of nodules even before they can be felt by touch. Observe your body and let the mammogram do the rest, says designer Corrine Ellsworth Beaumont.
12 lemons for 12 breast cancer symptoms
In one of his images there are 12 lemons, each with a possible malformation linked to breast cancer.
Learn self-examination
Self-examination is vital, keeping in mind some basic concepts: a lump is different from a cyst and is very similar to the seed of a lemon, hard, small and does not move.
Every woman should check her breasts regularly, knowing that the best time to do so is in the days following the end of her period. All you need to do is raise your arm overhead and gently palpate your bare breast pressing down around the entire surface. It is also important to do it in the armpit area, the crucial point where breast cancer can occur.
If you recognize any of the symptoms, talk to your family doctor, who will start by giving you a mammogram. But even in the absence of symptoms, it is better to undergo the usual diagnostic tests, especially after the age of 40: you will establish the frequency of the tests together with your doctor.
