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Facts You Should Know
 
View Three Self Exam
Techniques
An
estimated one in every eight women will develop breast cancer sometime
in her life. This statistic makes breast cancer the second highest
cause of cancer death in women, second only to lung cancer.
Who's
at Risk?
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Women
who eat diets high in animal fats |
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Women
with a family history of breast cancer (mothers, daughters or
sisters who have had the disease) |
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Women
over the age of 40
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Regardless of the risk factor, all women should perform monthly
breast self-examinations and have regular check-ups. This way, any
unusual development in breast tissue can be diagnosed and treated
early -- and the rate of cure for breast cancer found at an early
stage is high.
Tips for Early Detection
Regular examination of your breasts is a big step toward early detection.
That's why all women over the age of 20 should examine their breasts
once a month.
You
can learn this procedure from your doctor, nurse or clinic. Whether
your perform this self exam on a specific date each month or right
after your menstrual cycle is unimportant. What is essential is
that you do a thorough manual check. Next, look carefully in the
mirror for visible changes. Squeeze your nipple gently to check
for discharge. See your doctor immediately if you detect changes
or lumps in your breast, even if they cause you no discomfort. A
lump may only be a benign cyst, but your doctor must make that determination.
In
addition to the self exam, women between the ages of 20 and 40 should
have a physical breast exam every three years. Women over the age
of 40 should have a physical exam every year.
How does Mammography Help Detect Breast Cancer?
Mammography uses very low dose x-rays to find tumors in breast tissue.
Many tumors that are too small to be felt can be detected with this
technology. Mammography is therefore an invaluable early detection
tool. A baseline mammogram is recommended for women ages 35 to 39.
Women ages 40 and older should have a mammogram every year. If you
have any questions about mammography, consult your doctor.
Breast
Lumps:
Not every lump found in breast tissue is malignant. In fact, approximately
80 percent of all lumps prove to be cysts or fibrous tumors caused
by hormones, age or other factors. Even tumors that aren't cancerous
must sometimes be removed, however, because they interfere with
bodily functions. If you discover a lump in your breast, see your
doctor immediately. A mammogram, ultrasound or biopsy, combined
with a thorough medical history, will help your physician make a
sound recommendation on the best course of treatment for you.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
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Lumps
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Thickening,
dimpling or pitting of the breast |
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Nipple
discharge that is either clear or bloody |
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Newly
retracted nipples |
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Changes
in breast shape |
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Redness
of the breast |
Photo
courtesy of the American Cancer Society.
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