We all know that breast self-examination is one of the keys to early detection of breast cancer in its most curable stage. But how many of us actually do it–or do it effectively? Two aids have appeared in the marketplace this fall to make self-exams easier.
Breast cancer survivor and activist Olivia Newton-John has lent her name and support to the Liv Kit, featuring Liv Aid, a device that enhances the sense of touch, so that the feel of any lump is magnified. Invented by Decatur engineer Don A. Perry, it’s a reusable 8-inch round pad made of two layers of latex-free polyurethane sheets with a non-toxic lubricant sealed inside. The Liv Kit, including a booklet to chart self-exams and mammograms, costs $19.99.
A second self-exam guide now available is the Mark for Life, featuring a form-fitting T-shirt with printed diagrams to guide hand motions for palpating the breasts. A pen allows women to mark the location of any lumps, providing a comparison of variations from month to month. It costs $29.99.
The Liv Kit is sold at Jewel-Osco, Target and Ulta stores. The Mark for Life T-shirt is available at medical facilities and online at www.markforlife.com.
