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Olubukola Ayodele: Self-Breast Examination Is The Most Effective Early Detection Tool We Have

Olubukola Ayodele/LinkedIn

May 29, 2025, 09:52

Olubukola Ayodele: Self-Breast Examination Is The Most Effective Early Detection Tool We Have

Olubukola Ayodele, Consultant Medical Oncologist at the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, shared a post on LinkedIn:

“I had a wonderful time yesterday at the African Caribbean Centre in Leicester, teaching women how to properly examine their breasts. It was a great opportunity to connect with the community. The women had the chance to ask questions and we addressed myths and concerns about breast health. The models I used included a normal breast, a lumpy/cystic (dense) breast and a breast with concerning lumps at different areas (quadrants) of the breast.

Self-breast examination (SBE) is the most effective early detection tool we have, especially for Black women.

Why is this important? Research shows that Black women develop breast cancer, on average, 15-20 years earlier than white women. In the UK, routine screening begins at age 50, with invitations sent only every three years. Currently, the breast screening services in the UK are falling short and need significant improvements.

While we continue to advocate for an enhanced breast screening program, here are some key points to remember:

You don’t need an invitation to check your body.

Cancer can develop in the time between screening invites.

Every lump should be investigated.

I also introduced the women to the Mami App, a fantastic new tool designed specifically for Black women. This app teaches users how to examine their breasts and helps track any symptoms. I encourage every woman to download it and share it with others. The app was developed by Mercy Ofuya, PhD, the Vanessa Moss Prize winner at the 2023 London Global Cancer Week who is the founder of CupArise CIO charity. As we make efforts to make the app available in all common African languages, we welcome funding support.

Breast cancer doesn’t wait for a screening invitation. Learn to check your breasts and teach someone else. Early detection saves lives.

Prevention is more than just a campaign; it’s a culture we need to build.

Thank you to Amanda Toussaint, the Director of the African Heritage Alliance for inviting me.

Thank you to the Macmillan Cancer Support Breast Clinical Nurse Specialists at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust for providing me with the resources I used on the day including helping me order tailored educational leaflets from Breast Cancer Now.”