Because Early Detection Matters

Pinpointing breast cancer early is the main goal of routine breast care, and we take seriously. We have put together resources to equip you in taking charge of your breast health. By finding problems early, you will have the best chance of successful treatment. Routine care can also help find other noncancerous or benign conditions, too.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) says that all women should get to know how their breasts normally look and feel. Doing this can help you notice any changes more easily. Changes to your breasts may include:

• Lump
• Leaky fluid (discharge) other than breastmilk
• Swelling
• Skin irritation or dimpling
• Nipple problems. This might be nipple pain, redness, or flaking. Or the nipple may turn inward.

See your health care provider right away if you notice any of these changes.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the ACS don't recommend doing breast self-exams (BSEs). This is because they may not lower the risk of dying from breast cancer. Talk with your health care provider about the benefits and limits of BSEs, which can help you decide if you should do them.

Breast Cancer Detection Methods

• Clinical breast exam (CBE). Your physical exam should include a clinical breast exam (CBE) by a health care provider or nurse trained to check breast problems. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends:

• Between ages 29 and 39, women should have a CBE by a health care provider every one to three years.
• After age 40, women should have a breast exam by a health care provider every year.

The USPSTF and the ACS believe there isn't enough evidence to know if CBEs are helpful for women ages 40 and older. Talk with your health care provider about your personal risk factors. That will help you decide if you should have a CBE.

• Mammography: A mammogram is an x-ray used to find breast tumors before symptoms of cancer appear. During the test, your breast is placed between two metal or plastic plates that flatten and spread the tissue. Low levels of radiation are used to take a picture of the inside of your breast. Some facilities have digital mammography, which display results on a computer instead of on film. The test can be uncomfortable, but it only lasts a few moments.
• Breast MRI: An MRI uses magnets, radio waves and a computer to make detailed pictures of the inside of the breast. Before the MRI, you may be injected with a contrast dye. This helps to better outline the breast tissue and possible tumors.

These screening methods can improve your chances of catching cancer early. Women at high risk for breast cancer may be advised to start breast cancer screening at a younger age, and have an MRI in addition to a mammogram. For some women with dense breast tissue, ultrasound may be done in addition to a mammogram. And for some women at high risk for breast cancer, a screening MRI may be advised along with mammograms.