Why checking your underarms is just as important as checking your breasts – personal advice from a Consultant Breast Surgeon.

As a breast cancer surgeon and a woman, October is always a deeply reflective month for me. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is not just a campaign. It is a powerful reminder of how important it is for us to know our bodies and to prioritise our health.

One message I always share with my patients, friends, and family is this: when you check your breasts each month, don’t forget to check your armpits. This small act is easy to overlook but can make all the difference in our breast health.

Most of us have grown up being told to feel for lumps in the breast. But very few of us realise that a painless lump in the armpit can sometimes be the first sign of breast cancer.

The armpit contains a cluster of lymph nodes. These are small, bean-shaped glands that play a vital role of the body’s immune system. Our lymphatic system helps our bodies to fight infections and serves as a first line of defence against harmful abnormal cells. In some cases, these lymph nodes can trap breast cancer cells, even before a lump in the breast becomes noticeable.

Some people have extra breast tissue in the armpit, or the axillary tail of the breast extends into that area. This tissue can develop breast cancer just as the rest of the breast can. If we only check the breast and not the underarm, we risk missing important signs.

Why this matters to me, and to you.

Over the years, I have seen women come into clinic with a lump under the arm, having never noticed anything in the breast itself. Some of these lumps turn out to be breast cancer.  This always brings home the importance of raising awareness to check the entire breast area, not just the part we see in the mirror.

When breast cancer is caught early, the outcomes are significantly better. That is why I believe being breast aware, which means that knowing what is normal for our bodies, this is one of the most powerful tools we have.

This is how I check myself

To be breast aware, we don’t need anything fancy, just our hands, a mirror, and five minutes.

I check my breasts, chest and underarms once a month. If you have periods, the best time is just after they finish, when the breast tissue is less tender. If not, choose a regular date, something simple and memorable. 

Here’s what I do

• I look in the mirror for any changes in shape, size, or skin texture on both breasts, including the nipples and underarm.
• I raise one arm and, with the opposite hand, use gentle circular motions to feel deep into the armpit and my chest, all the way up to my collarbone.
• I am looking and feeling for any lumps, firmness or differences from the other side.
• I then repeat this on the other side.
• If anything feels new, different, or unusual, I don’t wait, I get it checked. 

If you find a change

Please remember, most lumps are not cancer. But any persistent change, whether it’s a lump, swelling, changes to your skin, or something just not feeling quite right, then it needs assessment.

Please, trust your instincts. Seeking advice promptly is never a waste of anyone’s time.

A gentle nudge, woman to woman

I want to gently encourage all women to make space to check your breasts and your armpits. Set aside a quiet moment for yourself. Learn what’s normal for your body, and don’t ignore anything that isn’t.

It’s a small act of care that could one day save your life. I do it every month, I hope you will too.

 

** Whilst breast cancer is most common in women it can also affect men, that’s why I would advise everybody to be breast and chest aware. Men should also look out for any changes to their chest, nipples or armpits and get any changes checked.**

Prof Carmichael is available to see patients in London and Birmingham, you can view her profile here