Earlier Detection Methods

Get a routine mammogram.

Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization recommends that women begin annual mammography screening at age 40. Women who are younger than 40 or have either a family history of breast cancer or other concerns about their personal risk should consult a medical professional about when to begin mammography. Read more about mammography.

See your medical professional on a regular basis.

A clinical breast examination should be part of your routine checkup. Beginning at age 20 women should have a clinical breast exam every two to three years. Women age 40 and older should have one every year.

Read about when to see a doctor about a breast problem.

Perform breast self-examination once a month.

Becoming familiar with the geography of your breasts is very important. If you find something that you know is unusual, have a doctor check it. A LUMP SHOULD NEVER BE IGNORED. To learn how to perform breast self-examination, please see How to Perform a Breast Self-Examination.

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