Breast Cancer Screening

Average Risk Women

Annual mammography beginning at age 40

Women should be aware of any changes in their breasts.

Monthly breast selfexamination beginning at 20 years old.

Clinical breast examination every 3 years for women in their 20s and 30s and annually for women 40 and older.

Women with a Family

History of Breast Cancer

Clinical breast examination every three to six months starting no later than 10 years earlier than the age at which the youngest family member was diagnosed with breast cancer

Annual mammography starting 10 years prior to the age of the youngest family member with breast cancer (but not earlier than age 25 and not later than age 40)

Consider annual MRI (consult with your physician)

Women should be aware of any changes in their breasts. Monthly breast selfexamination beginning at 20 years old.

Women at Higher Risk

Women Age 50 or older

Family history of breast cancer

Personal history of breast cancer

Early menarche Late menopause

Obesity after menopause

Exposure to ionizing radiation

Facts about Breast Cancer

One in seven women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime

American Cancer Society estimates 192,370 new cases of breast cancer diagnosed in 2009, 40,170 women are expected to die from breast cancer in 2009

Breast cancer is the 2nd leading cause of death in women (after lung cancer)

Most breast lumps are benign

Tumors detected early are nearly 100% curable

There are approximately 2.5 million Breast Cancer Survivors living in the United States

Breast Cancer Symptoms

Symptoms of breast cancer may vary from woman to woman. Women should be familiar with their breasts so that they know what feels and looks normal for them. Changes should be promptly reported to a health care provider. Many cancers are found by regular mammography after age 40 – before any symptoms are felt.

Symptoms include:

Lump or mass in your breast

Enlarged lymph nodes in the armpit

Changes in breast size, shape, skin texture or color

Skin redness

Dimpling or puckering

Nipple changes or discharge

Scaliness

Nipple pulling to one side or a change in direction

Reducing Your Risk

Talking with your doctor about your use of oral contraceptives and hormonal therapy

Maintaining your ideal weight

Eating at least five servings of fruit and vegetables per day

Following recommended screening guidelines

Exercising regularly

Eliminating tobacco use and using alcohol in moderation

Getting your breast cancer risk assessed

If you’re at increased risk, talk with your doctor about medications that can reduce your risk of developing breast cancer.