Methods to Detect Breast Cancer Early
The American Cancer society offers a few pieces of advice to help women detect breast cancer early. They recommend that women in their 20s and 30s have a clinical breast exam (CBE) as part of a regular health exam by a health professional every 3 years. Starting at age 40, women should have a yearly CBE by a health professional.
For women just entering their 20s, they recommend a breast self-exam (BSE). Women in general need to be aware of the benefits and limitations of a BSE. Women should report any breast changes to their health professional right away.
Women who are at high risk for breast cancer based on certain factors should get an MRI and a mammogram every year.
Most doctors feel that early detection tests for breast cancer save thousands of lives each year, and that many more lives could be saved if even more women and their health care providers took advantage of these tests.
-The American Cancer Society
Breast Cancer Signs and Symptoms
Knowing the signs and symptoms of breast cancer helps with early detection. The sooner breast cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat. Make sure you are informed and taking the steps to protect your health.
The Cancer Treatment Centers of America list the following as common breast cancer signs and symptoms.
- Skin changed such as swelling or redness
- An increase in size or change in shape of the breast(s)
- Changes in the appearance of one or both nipples
- Nipple discharge other than breast milk
- General pain in/on any part of the breast
- Lumps or nodes felt on or inside the breast
Here are some symptoms specific to invasive breast cancer.
- Itchy or irritated breast
- Change in breast color
- Increase in breast size or shape over a short period of time
- A breast lump or thickening
- Changes in touch, may feel hard, tender or warm
- Peeling or flacking of the nipple skin
- Redness or pitting of the breast skin (like the skin of an orange)
This post is brought to you by:
Communications Technologies, NFI Asthetics, Quickenden Chiropractic, Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County
