Definitely yes to self-examination. I found my tumour myself, GP referral to breast clinic, nothing on their mammogram but ultrasound revealed two small grade 3 tumours, now removed through lumpectomy and flap reconstruction. Spread to 1 sentinel node so axillary clearance, which revealed 1/20 lymph nodes affected. All dealt with very fast by my local NHS, now awaiting radiotherapy and taking hormone therapy. Participated in Optima clinical trial which assessed me as not likely to benefit from chemo. None of this would have happened if I hadn't found the tumour, (the ultrasound found the second one) which are known as being mammographically occult ie not showing on mammogram. I encourage everyone to be breast aware now.
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