Early Detection is Your Best Protection!
Breast cancer is hard to ignore. It is the most common form of cancer among American women, and almost everyone knows at least one person who has been treated for it.
Understandably, women are concerned about getting breast cancer, and this concern prompts them to watch for breast changes. Breast changes are common. Even though most are not cancer, they can be worrisome.
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Early Detection
*A lump is detected, which is usually single, firm, and most often painless.
*A portion of the skin on the breast or underarm swells and has an unusual appearance.
*Veins on the skin surface become more prominent on one breast.
*The breast nipple becomes inverted, develops a rash, changes in skin texture, or has a discharge other than breast milk.
*A depression is found in an area of the breast surface.
Women's breasts can develop some degree of lumpiness, but only a small percentage of lumps are malignant.
While a history of breast cancer in the family may lead to increased risk, most breast cancers are diagnosed in women with NO family history. If you have a family history of breast cancer, this should be discussed with your doctor.
An Early Detection Plan should include:
*Clinical breast examinations every three years from ages 20-39, then every year thereafter.
*Monthly breast self-examinations beginning at age 20. Look for any changes in your breasts.
*Baseline mammogram by the age of 40.
Mammogram every one to two years for women 40-49, depending on previous findings.
*Mammogram every year for women 50 and older.
*A personal calendar to record your self-exams, mammograms, and doctor appointments.
*A low-fat diet, regular exercise, and no smoking or drinking.
~Copyright © 2003
National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.
All rights reserved.
Privacy Policy~
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American Cancer Society
EARLY DETECTION...the BEST PROTECTION!
The American Cancer Society recommends that all women over the age of 20 examine their breasts once a month. By examining your breasts regularly, you will know how your breasts normally feel. If a change should happen in your breasts, you will be able to identify it and let your doctor know. Most lumps are found by women themselves. If you find any lumps, thickenings or changes, tell your doctor right away. Remember, most breast lumps are not cancerous, but you don't know if you don't ask. Breast cancer may be successfully treated if you find it and treat it early. Delaying the diagnosis of breast cancer does not change the diagnosis, it only worsens the outcome...to learn more, please visit the American Cancer Society by using the link provided above.
*Disclaimer: The text presented on this site is for your information only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It may not represent your true individual medical situation. Do not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.*
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Early Detection is Your Best Protection!
Breast cancers in their early stages are usually painless. Often the first symptom is the discovery of a hard lump. Fifty percent of such masses are found in the upper outer quarter of the breast. The lump may make the affected breast appear elevated or asymmetric. The nipple may be retracted or scaly. Sometimes the skin of the breast is dimpled like the skin of an orange. In some cases there is a bloody or clear discharge from the nipple. Many cancers, however, produce no symptoms and cannot be felt on examination. They can be detected only with a mammogram.
Monthly breast self-exams should always include: visual inspection (with and without a mirror) to note any changes in contour or texture, and manual inspection in standing and reclining positions to note any unusual lumps or thicknesses.
For more information, please visit the MyBreastCancerNetwork by using the link provided above.
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One of the greatest tools you can use in the fight against breast cancer is KNOWLEDGE! There is a wealth of information online available to inform and educate you about breast cancer, current research, and the most innovative treatments. On this page are the web sites that we feel provide the most truthful and up-to-date information.
We receive thousands of emails and phone calls from women asking if their symptoms are indicative of Breast Cancer. Unfortunately, we are NOT doctors and are NOT qualified to give a medical opinion. However, if a woman is concerned enough to inquire about her medical condition, she is worried enough that she should see her family physician.
Most women tell us that they are embarassed because their symptoms "may be nothing". If it is a "false alarm", you can laugh later! If it is NOT...you may have saved your life! Risk the akwardness of embarassement to put your mind at ease!
Nancy Knott/President
She Thinks Pink
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