Mammogram - A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. It is best screening tool used today to find breast cancer early. A mammogram can find cancer at an early stage when it is small and esaier to treat. Mammogram images can be stored on film (standard) or on a computer (digital).
Clinical breast exam - A breast exam by a health care provider should be part of your regular medical checkup. If it is not, ask for it. A clinical breast exam includes a visual examination and carefully feeling the entire breast - from the collarbone to the bra line, and from the armpit to the breastbone. If you are 40 or older, schedule your mammogram close to the time of your clinical breast exam.
Signs that you should not ignore
Be aware of any change in your breast or underarm area. If you notice any of the following signs, make an appointment with your health care provider right away.
- lumps, hard knot or thickening in any part of the breast
- swelling, warmth, redness or darkening
- change in the size or shape of your breats
- dimpling or puckering of the skin
- itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple
- pulling in your nipple or other parts
- nipple discharge that starts suddenly
- new pain in one spot that does not go away
Know how your breast normally look and feel and report changes to your health care provider right away. Breast self-exam (BSE) is a tool that may help you learn what is normal for you. It includes looking at and feeling your breasts. Many women have a pattern of lumpiness in their breasts, which is normal. But if you feel or see any change in your breasts or underarms, ask your doctor to examine the area.
If breast cancer is found early, there are more treatment options and a better chance for survival. A mammogram can find breast cancer before it can be felt. However, it is not perfect. But, when mammography is combined with clinical breast exam your chances for finding cancer are even greater.
Remember, even if you feel healthy now, just being a woman and getting older puts you at risk for breast cancer. Getting checked regularly can put your mind at ease. Finding cancer early may save your life.
