How To Check Yourself For Breast Cancer

Get A Mammogram And Other Exams

Lumps or changes in breast tissue caused by certain cancers may be detected by a physical examination before a mammogram. Conversely, some breast cancers are detectable by a mammogram before physical symptoms such as a lump appear or can be felt. This is why it's important to add self-exams to your screening process for breast cancer. Get a mammogram and other exams like an ultrasound to detect tumors in their early stages before they can be felt. Regular screening for breast cancer can start as early as forty years of age but should be performed every year starting at forty-five. Women should continue annual screenings until at least fifty-five. Women aged fifty-five and up can screen every two years instead of annually. A small percentage of women may need additional screening techniques such as MRIs because of factors like genetics. Consult with your doctor to discuss your family history and other factors that may affect your risk to determine the best screening method for you.