Breast Self-Exam

Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Programs

These programs help women receive the screening and diagnostic services needed to detect early signs of breast and cervical cancer. Find out if you qualify.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women. Thanks to modern treatments, many women diagnosed with breast cancer will go on to live full lives.

The key to successful treatment, however, lies in early detection, and for that, every woman needs to follow the recommended breast screening guidelines, which includes a monthly breast self-examination (BSE). Nine out of 10 breast lumps are found by women themselves.

Eight out of every 10 breast lumps are not cancerous, but that does not lessen the need to do breast self-examinations monthly. The BSE will help to determine what is normal for your breasts, and help you recognize a change.

Breast Self-Examination (BSE)

Breast Self- Examination (BSE) can be a valuable tool in diagnosing breast cancer at an early stage. It is important to remember that everyone’s breasts are different and that changes can be related to aging, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause or hormone use. Normal breast tissue feels lumpy and uneven. It is normal for a woman’s breast tissue to become swollen and tender right before or during her menstrual period. Nine out of 10 breast masses are detected through BSE. Eight out of every 10 breast masses are not cancerous, but that does not lessen the importance of performing BSE monthly. Regular BSE will help to identify changes that require further evaluation and possible treatment.

Breast Self-Examination Changes to Report:

• Lumps, hard knots or thickening in the breast or underarm area
• Unusual swelling, warmth, redness or darkening that does not go away
• Change in the size or shape of your breast
• Dimpling or puckering of the skin
• An itch, scaly sore or rash on the nipple
• Pulling in of the nipple or other parts of the breast
• Nipple discharge that starts suddenly or is bloody
• Pain that is localized in one area and that does not vary with your monthly cycle

While breast cancer does not typically cause pain, you should see your primary healthcare provider for breast pain or any other finding that does not go away.

Every woman is at risk for breast cancer, regardless of age, family history or current health. In fact, the majority of women who are diagnosed with the disease have none of the commonly known risk factors.

Mammography screening done at regular intervals, together with clinical breast exams, and monthly breast self-examination, are the three techniques that provide the best means of early detection of breast cancer.

We invite you to become better acquainted with the Center for Breast Health. For more information about maintaining breast health, call us at 563-421-7625 or toll-free, 1-800-215-1444. We'd be happy to help.

Recommended Breast Screening Guidelines

For women between puberty-40:

• Monthly breast self-examination
• Breast examination by a trained health professional at least every three years
• First mammogram by age 40

For women 40 years and older:

• Monthly breast self-examinations
• Annual breast examination by a trained health professional
• Annual screening mammogram

Screening recommendations are for women who have no symptoms of breast cancer. Women identified as being high-risk for breast cancer should ask their physician for specific guidelines.

Adapted from the Department of Professional Education for Prevention and Early Detection. The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center Houston, Texas