The Fight Against Breast Cancer
Health and Wellness
by Christine McCarthy
October 23, 2007
Mammography remains the recommended method for detecting breast cancer early, and the
American Cancer Society's guidelines call for women to have yearly mammograms beginning at age 40.
The Society also recommends that women begin monthly breast self-exams beginning in their 20s.
All suspicious lumps should be assessed by a breast specialist, and if needed, a biopsy will
yield definitive diagnosis. Breast MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), according to several studies,
may be more sensitive in women with high risk/inherited susceptibility to breast cancer. However,
it is important to remember MRI is not a substitute for a mammogram but rather is used in
conjunction with mammography. ACS recommended screening guidelines for early detection of breast
cancer
Yearly mammograms are recommended starting at age 40. The age at which screening should be
stopped should be individualized by considering the potential risks and benefi ts of screening in
the context of overall health status and longevity.
Clinical breast exam should be part of a periodic health exam, about every three years for
women in their 20s and 30s, and every year for women 40 and older.
Women should know how their breasts normally feel and report any breast change promptly to
their health care providers. Breast selfexam is an option for women starting in their 20s.
Women at increased risk for breast cancer because of factors such as family history, genetic
tendency, and past breast cancer should talk with their doctors about the benefi ts and limitations
of starting mammography screening earlier, having additional tests or having more frequent exams.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Generally, early breast cancer does not cause pain. Even so, a woman should see her
health care provider about breast pain or any other symptom that does not go away.
Common symptoms of breast cancer include:
- A change in how the breast or nipple feels You may experience nipple tenderness or notice a lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm area.
- A change in how the breast or nipple looks This could mean a change in the size or shape of the breast or a nipple that is turned slightly inward. In addition, the skin of the breast, areola or nipple may appear scaly, red or swollen or may have ridges or pitting that resembles the skin of an orange.
- Nipple discharge
