No matter the size, one thing that brings out the ultimate in our femininity is our breasts. We dress them in supportive bras, beautiful lingerie and sports gear. We check to see how dresses or tops fit around our boobs. We have endearing nicknames for them.

Yes, we do! They are the twins, ta-tas, boobies, coconuts, melons and the girls. There are a ton more. They are ours. We own them! It's an external sign that says, "I am a WOMAN!" With us claiming our breasts with such pride and going extra lengths to "dress them up" in fabulous bras, this Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let's become more mindful of taking ownership of our health and becoming more informed about breast cancer in general.

While the topic is one many of us dread, owning our health should be something we embrace.

Early detection. For that reason alone, regular examinations are essential. It's been known to result in effective treatment and is linked to a more positive prognosis.
The key to early detection is regular mammograms and self-examinations.

We discovered an excellent site called Know Your Lemons.

This site provides an excellent visual representation of how physical cues and presentations in our boobs may be signs of breast cancer.

Thanks to breastcancer.org; here are four steps to self-examination.

Take time to reflect. In front of a mirror, check for changes like dimpling, discharge or size differences.
Cansa advises that we "Inspect four ways: arms at sides; arms overhead; firmly pressing hands on hips and bending forward."
Lie down and place a pillow under your right shoulder and your right hand under your head. "Using four fingers of your left hand, make small circular motions, follow an up and down pattern over the entire breast area, under the arms and up to the shoulder bone, pressing firmly." Repeat this on the opposite side.
While you have your bath. With your right arm raised, check your right breast with a soapy left hand and fingers flat using the method described for "lying down", and of course, repeat on the other side.

As simple as 1,2,3.

Regarding medical screenings, in South Africa, this should be a right afforded to women as the examination can be costly. This is especially true in our country, where many women are from low-income groups. The excellent news is that CANSA provides minimal-cost screenings from most of the CANSA Care Centres. These costs are to cover the cost of materials.

We love the work that Pink Drive is doing. An NGO founded in 2009 by Ms. Noelene Kotschan. Their purpose is powerful.

"Our cardinal purpose is to contribute meaningfully towards preventing as many people as possible from succumbing to breast, cervical, prostate and testicular cancer."

Their primary focus is those from lower income groups or those without access to reasonable care.

We love what Professor Carol-Ann Benn, a surgeon with a particular interest in breast cancer, advises in her wisdom:

"Screening is very much like wearing your seatbelt when driving. It won't prevent you from having an accident, but it will protect you if you do.

Boobies, Tatas, The Twins: Owning your Breast Health