Woman Discovers 20 Tumours Through Self-Check Before It’s Too Late

In a startling turn of events, Helen Thomson discovered 20 tumours in her breast after performing a self-check, which led to her early diagnosis of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). At 57 years old, Thomson had regularly undergone mammograms every two years, but it was her own vigilance that ultimately saved her life.

Thomson first noticed something was amiss in early August last year when her right breast felt different. Despite having a mammogram scheduled for the following year, she found a lump that turned out to be cancerous. During surgery, doctors removed a significant amount of tissue and identified multiple tumours that had not been detected in earlier screenings.

Importance of Vigilance in Breast Health

The Ministry of Health provides free mammograms every two years for women aged 45 to 69 as part of their breast screening programme. With statistics indicating that one in nine women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime, the importance of early detection cannot be overstated. According to Health NZ, regular mammograms can identify 80% to 90% of breast cancers. Nonetheless, many cases remain undetected due to various factors, including the size and location of the tumours.

Natalie James, lead nurse at the Breast Cancer Foundation, emphasized that not all cancers will show up on mammograms. “A number of breast cancers are diagnosed in between regular mammograms,” she noted. “There needs to be more awareness.” This statement serves as a crucial reminder for women not to rely solely on mammograms for early detection.

Thomson’s Journey to Recovery

Thomson, a former radiographer, had been proactive about her breast health, conducting daily self-examinations. “I knew my normal and I felt myself every day,” she said. The lump she found had grown significantly in the year since her last mammogram, highlighting how quickly breast cancer can develop.

Following her diagnosis, Thomson underwent surgery to remove the affected tissue and subsequently received radiotherapy. Fortunately, she avoided a mastectomy and chemotherapy due to the early detection of her cancer. “If I hadn’t been that person that felt up my boobs, it could have really got away on me,” she reflected.

James encourages women to adopt a routine of “TLC”—touch, look, and check—when examining their breasts. This method aims to familiarize women with their own breast health without instilling fear. “You’re not looking for a cancer; you’re looking to know the normal of your breasts,” she explained.

Thomson’s experience serves as a powerful reminder for women to take charge of their health. As Breast Cancer Awareness Month approaches in October, she hopes to inspire others to be vigilant, stating, “Do this for yourself.” Her story highlights the critical role of self-examinations in the early detection of breast cancer, potentially saving lives.

For further information on breast health and self-examinations, visit the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ’s website.