Early Detection Saves Lives

Now that you know more about breast cancer, and that survival rates increase the lesser the stage is, we hope you can see why early detection is SO important! By detecting breast cancer early through regular clinical breast exams from your health care provider, mammograms, and breast self-exams, treatment can begin at the more curable stage. These forms of detection may be uncomfortable (especially mammograms), but compared to breast cancer (which may go undiagnosed if the proceedure is not performed) mammograms are a walk in the park.

So let's review the steps to early breast cancer detection.

1. Get a clinical breast exam every 2-3 years starting at age 20 and yearly starting at age 40.

2. Get yearly mammograms starting at age 40. This proceedure takes only a few moments and may locate a lump that is too small for you or your health care provider to feel. Some women with an increased risk of breast cancer may need to get mommograms before age 40 and should check with their doctor about personal screening recommendations.

3. Do monthly breast self-exams. You know your body best. Take these steps to help detect breast cancer:

Look for any changes in shape, size, symmetry, or appearance.
Stand in front of a mirror and look for dimpling, puckering of the skin or nipple, rash or discoloration of the skin, nipple discharge, or any unusual breast changes. Inspect both breasts in each of these positions:

• With your arms at your side
• with your arms over your head - front and side views
• with your hands on your hips - stand up and bend forward

Feel for any change in breast tissue

• Lie on your back with a pillow under your right shoulder and your right arm at a 90-degree angle.
• Use the pads of the three middle fingers on your left hand to examine your right breast.
• press using light, medium, and firm pressure with small, circular motions in an up-and-down pattern.
• Check from your collarbone to just below your breast and from the center of your chest to, and including, your armpit.
• Repeat on your left breast using your right hand.

If you find a lump, don't panic. About 80% of breast lumps are not cancerous. However, you should report any lumps or changes to your health care provider. Remember, some women's breast tissue is naturally more dense and lumpy. What's important is to be familiar with your breasts so you recognize any changes.

Post Title : Early Detection Saves Lives

Early Detection Saves Lives,

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Early Detection Saves Lives