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Breast Cancer Screening
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Breast Cancer awareness month is October. Over half of those diagnosed with breast cancer do not have symptoms. Therefore, precautionary screening is essential. Two of the most widely used forms of screening are the self breast exam, and the mammogram.
The National Cancer Institute recommends that a woman age 40 and older should have a routine mammogram every one to two years. Those with high risk factors are advised to discuss earlier screening with their physician.
Self breast exams are suggested on a monthly base. The time chosen for the exam should not be during the menstrual cycle, but rather several days after. The purpose of the self breast exam is to familiarize woman with their own personal anatomy, so that changes may be detected.
A woman’s breast may develop lumps and bumps at different times of the menstrual cycle; however, these should only be a concern for further discussion with your doctor if they remain for more than one full cycle.
The things to look for when doing a self breast exam are any differences between breasts, areas of swollen, red, or soreness, drainage from the nipples, and lumps or bumps that change in any way. Remember, short term changes in the breast may occur. However, if they stay changed over one full cycle (a month) then seek a medical opinion.
The breast exam should be performed standing (preferably in front of a mirror) and lying down as well. If there are any questions about how to perform the self breast exam a physician can help answer any questions, or there are several videos via the internet.
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