Nicole Eggert diagnosed with breast cancer after self exam

It was announced earlier this month that “Baywatch” alumna Nicole Eggert was diagnosed with breast cancer, but we were surprised to find out how she was diagnosed.

Eggert, who played Summer Quinn in the 90’s hit show, was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer after performing a self exam in the shower.

The actress told People Magazine that she gets annual mammograms every December “like clockwork,” but also confessed that she didn’t normally do self exams. Eggert said she would rely on her annual clinical exam with her gynecologist.

“I just don’t bother [with self exams],” Eggert said. “I have these dreaded implants — that, you know, it’s my biggest regret in life — but I have them and it can kind of get in the way if you’re doing your own self exam.”

She said that when she started experiencing pain on her left side last year, she examined her breast. “In the shower, I was doing the exam, and I felt it, and my heart dropped.”

In the weeks that followed, Eggert struggled to get scheduled for a mammogram. She said that every facility she visited across the Los Angeles area told her they were unable to book her appointment.

So often we’re told that early detection is key to survival rates against disease. Self breast exams are crucial to early detection, as they provide a simple and effective way to monitor their breast health.

By becoming familiar with the normal look and feel of their breasts, you can quickly identify any unusual lumps, changes in size or shape, or other signs that might indicate a potential issue.

Should you ever find something concerning while performing a self exam, contact your medical provider right away.