WHAT IS BREAST CANCER?
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women, after skin cancer. It is a disease in which cells in the breast grow out of control. Cancer cells can also spread, or metastasize, to other parts of the body.
SYMPTOMS TO LOOK FOR?
- Some warning signs of breast cancer are:
- New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit).
- Thickening or swelling of part of the breast.
- Irritation or dimpling of breast skin.
- Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast.
- Pulling in of the nipple.
- Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood.
- Any change in the size or shape of the breast.
- Pain in the breast.
These symptoms can happen with other conditions that are not cancer. If you notice any of these symptoms, talk to your health care provider right away.
WHAT CAN I DO TO FIND BREAST CANCER EARLY?
Breast cancer screening involves checking a woman’s breasts for cancer before there are signs or symptoms of the disease. A SCREENING MAMMOGRAM is a test that uses X-rays to create images of the breast. It’s the most effective screening test used today to find breast cancer in most women. Screening mammograms can find breast cancer early, sometimes up to 10 years before it could be detected by you or your doctor.
MAMMOGRAM RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Talk with a doctor about which screening tests are right for you.
- Have a mammogram every year starting at age 40 if you’re at average risk.
- Have a clinical breast exam at least every three years starting at age 20, and every year starting at age 40.
