Women can and should examine their own breasts starting in their 20s. Performing regular self-exams allows a women to get to know how her own breasts look and feel, which may make you more likely to report any changes to your doctor.

Finding breast cancer early is important so you can get treatment that can save your life.

Here is what the American Cancer Society recommends to help find breast cancer early:

- Have a mammogram every year starting at age 40 and continue for as long as you are in good health.

- Get a breast exam by a doctor or nurse about every 3 years if you are in your 20s and 30s and every year if you are 40 or older

- Know how your breasts look and feel, and tell your doctor about any change in your breasts right away. You may wish to start doing breast self-examination(BSE) when you are in your 20s.

- Some women-because of their family history, a genetic tendency, or certain other factors-should have an MRI, in addition to a mammogram. Talk with your doctor about your history and if and when you should have an MRI.

Although many risk factors can be avoided, some, such as inherited conditions, are unavoidable. Still, it is helpful to be aware of them. It is also important to keep in mind that not everyone with a particular risk factor for cancer actually gets the disease; in fact, most do not. People who have an increased likelihood of developing cancer can help protect themselves by avoiding risk factors whenever possible and by getting regular checkups so that, if cancer develops, it is likely to be found early. Get the facts and remain informed.

The value of these preventive strategies is becoming clearer. In addition to helping reduce your risk of cancer, most of them can also help you avoid other serious diseases including heart attacks, strokes and diabetes. Unfortunately, nothing guarantees a cancer-free life, but by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can increase your chances.

Six steps everyone should take to help prevent cancer:

• Get Screened
• Don’t Use Tobacco
• Eat a Variety of Healthy Foods
• Protect Yourself from the Sun
• Stay Active and Maintain a Healthy Weight
• Consider other Possible Cancer-Fighting Strategies

How to Check Your Breast:

There are three ways of performing a breast self-exam:

Circular

Start at the outer edge of your breast, and move fingers around the entire breast in a circular motion.

Vertical
Start at your underarm area, and move your fingers downwards and back up until you have checked your entire breast.

Wedge

Start at the outer edge of your breast, and move your fingers towards the nipple and back to the edge until you have checked the entire breast in small wedge-shaped sections.

And remember...

• Use the pads of your three middle fingers to feel your breast.
• Always check your underarm and upper chest as well.
• Apply different levels of pressure while doing a self-exam.
• Look at your breasts in a mirror to check for any visual changes, such as changes in breast shape and/or swelling.

Male Breast Cancer

Men can develop breast cancer too. While it is not as prevalent as female breast cancer, it is just as deadly. Early diagnosis is the key to surviving breast cancer. Regular breast screenings are the best way to detect breast cancer early, when it is easiest to treat. All men should perform monthly breast self-examinations preferably during or right after a warm shower or bath.

If you are concerned about your breast health and are in need of assistance with a breast screening, AACAO is here to assist. Please visit our Breast Screening Program page for more information.