While there have been advances in diagnosing and treating early stage breast cancer, the medical community has been unable to form a consensus as to the most appropriate and effective ways to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. The best approach seems to be early detection:
1. Get a mammogram. The American Cancer Society recommends having a screening mammogram every year after age 40. Mammograms may detect lumps that cannot be felt during a clinical breast exam or your own self examinations. Mammograms are an important part of your health history. If you go to another health care provider or move, take your previous mammograms with you or arrange to have them sent.
2. Examine your breasts each month and continue these examinations throughout your life. You will become familiar with the contours and feel of your breasts and will be more alert to changes.
3. Have your breasts examined by a health care provider at least every year after age 40. Clinical breast exams by a trained professional – doctor or nurse - can sometimes detect lumps you may not feel.
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