Fighting Breast Cancer: Know Your Body

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Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, with skin cancers being an exception. Screening tests and early detection can find cancer early when chances for survival are highest.

It is important to know your risk for breast cancer. Talking to both sides of your family is important so you can become familiar with your family history.  It is also important to talk to your doctor about which screening tests are best for you.

Mammograms

Beginning at age 40, women should have a mammogram every year if you are at average risk. Beginning at age 20, women should schedule a clinical breast exam at least every three years and annual exams every year starting at age 40.

Self Exams

Be familiar with your body and what is normal for you.  The best way to do this is by performing monthly self breast exams. If you notice any of the following changes in your breast, contact your physician immediately:

• Lump
• Hard knot or thickening inside the breast or underarm area
• Swelling
• Warmth, redness or darkening of the breast
• Change in the size or shape of the breast
• Dimpling or puckering of the skin
• Itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple
• Pulling in of the nipple or other parts of the breast
• Nipple discharge that starts suddenly
• New pain in one spot that doesn’t go away

Making healthy lifestyle choices is also a good preventative for breast cancer. A key component in a healthy lifestyle is maintaining a healthy weight and adding exercise to your routine. Limiting alcohol intake and menopausal hormone use can also help reduce your risk.