How to Detect Breast Cancer Early

Overview

Breast cancer occurs when cells within the breast become malignant. These damaged cells can continue to multiply and in some cases a tumor will form. If the tumor is malignant, that means it is cancerous. Without treatment the cancer can spread to other areas of the body and be deadly. With advances in technology doctors can now diagnose breast cancer in its early stages. In the early stages of breast cancer there may be no symptoms or lump present; however, early detection greatly enhances your chances of survival. The American Cancer Society states that "The goal of screening exams, such as mammograms, is to find cancers before they start to cause symptoms."

Step 1

Get an annual mammogram once you turn 40. This involves an x-ray of the breasts that can show abnormalities in the cells. According to Breast Cancer.org "mammograms have been shown to lower the risk of dying from breast cancer by 35% in women over the age of 50." This procedure takes about 20 minutes and exposes you to only low levels of radiation. Try to find a center with digital mammography as this technique may allow your physician to get a clearer picture. Also look for a center that can give you your results right away to help reduce the anxiety of waiting for results.

Step 2

Do a monthly self breast exam as mammograms can miss breast cancer in its early stages. If you still have a period, do the exam at a time other then when your menstrual cycle occurs because your breasts will be less tender and swollen. Try to do your exam on the same day each month. The goal is to become familiar with how the breasts normally feel. Breast Cancer.org states that "The upper, outer area --- near your armpit --- tends to have the most prominent lumps and bumps. The lower half of your breast can feel like a sandy or pebbly beach. The area under the nipple can feel like a collection of large grains. Another part might feel like a lumpy bowl of oatmeal." Learning how your breasts normally feel will help you to detect when there may be abnormalities.

Step 3

See your doctor for a clinical breast exam or CBE in addition to doing self breast exams. According to the American Cancer Society "Women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast exam (CBE) as part of a periodic (regular) health exam by a health professional, at least every 3 years. After age 40, women should have a breast exam by a health professional every year." A CBE is also recommended as a supplement to mammograms.

Step 4

Schedule additional screening tests if you think there might be abnormal areas. Your doctor can do an ultrasound or MRI or take tissue samples to help rule out or confirm a diagnosis of breast cancer. Tissue samples can be obtained through a biopsy or fluid aspiration. These tests are not used exclusively to diagnose breast cancer, but they can provide additional information to be used in conjunction with all of the above screening tools.

Step 5

Look for signs and symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, breast cancer may be detected by seeing signs such as an area of tissue that feels like a lump, develops dimples or feels thicker then other area; fluid or blood discharge from the nipple; or a change in the size or shape of your breasts. If the nipple becomes inverted or red or begins to peel or flake, see your doctor.