Screening or examining the breasts for noticeable changes is important because at the earliest stages, breast cancer has no symptoms. When something unusual is discovered during screening or self-examination, more testing can be ordered to determine if the detected abnormality is a benign change or something more serious. When breast cancer is caught at its earliest stages the prognosis and survival rates for women are much better. It is also important to remember that many abnormalities found during breast screening examinations are not cancer.
Types of Breast Screening
Breast Self Exam (BSE)
Women in their 20s should perform a breast self exam on a monthly basis. This can be done in a systematic way or simply performed while showering or getting dressed. Technique is not too important. The main goal of BSE is to report any noticeable changes (lumps, bumps, skin puckering or wrinkling) to your doctor.
Clinical Breast Exam (CBE)
For women in their 20s and 30s a clinical breast exam is recommended at least every three years to check the breasts for any changes or abnormalities. Beyond age 40, women should have a CBE each year. For most women, these exams are performed during their yearly gynecology appointment.
Screening Mammograms
Screening mammograms are X-ray examinations of the breast used to detect abnormalities that cannot be felt upon manual exam. A special X-ray machine is used in conjunction with a device which squeezes the breast between two plates. The compression may cause some discomfort but it is needed to spread the tissue apart in order to get the best image. A routine screening mammogram consists of two views of each breast. The entire procedure normally takes less than 20 minutes. The mammogram is then read by a radiologist, a doctor who specializes in diagnosing disease based on imaging technologies. (including X-rays, MRI, mammograms) The radiologist will compare your current mammogram to older mammograms and note any changes. It is recommended that women age 40 and older schedule a yearly screening mammogram. If you have a family history of breast cancer or other concerns, talk to your doctor about if it makes sense to have a mammogram prior to turning 40.
