Breast Cancer - Early Detection & Breast Reconstruction with Breast Implants

Early Detection of Breast Cancer

Detecting Breast Cancer - Mammograms & Self-Exams

When a breast tumor is found in its earliest stages, a woman has better than 90% chance of long term survival. Early detection may also prevent the necessity of removing lymph nodes, undergoing radiation or chemotherapy, or removing a breast.

Do monthly breast self examinations (BSEs) beginning by age 20. More than 80% of all cancerous lumps are found by the women themselves. If a woman thoroughly and regularly examines her breasts, she is more likely to catch the lump while it is still small. The best time to do a BSE is two or three days after your period ends. If you don't know how to do a BSE or if you aren't sure, please scroll to the bottom of the page. There are links to sites with detailed self-examination instructions. If you learn better "in-person", you can ask your doctor on your next visit.

Remember that most breasts feel lumpy at times, and about 80% of all breast lumps are benign. Many are fibrocystic conditions, which are harmless and may appear immediately before the woman's period. So don't be afraid to go to the doctor if you find a lump. Chances are good that it's harmless, but if it does turn out to be cancer, you want to find it as early as possible.

See your doctor as soon as possible if you find any of the following: · a lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area · a change in the size or shape of the breast · a discharge from the nipple · a change in the color or feel of the breast's skin, areola, or nipple

Get clinical breast examinations yearly beginning at age 20. Most gynecologists will perform a clinical breast exam when you visit them for your yearly pap smear.

Begin getting annual mammograms at age 40. Women under 40 with a family history of breast cancer should consult with a doctor about when to begin getting mammograms. Because mammograms can often detect a small tumor before it can be felt in a clinical exam, mammography screening remains the single most effective method to diagnose breast cancer early. During National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, many mammography facilities offer extended hours and reduced fees. For the name of an accredited mammography facility near you, call the National Cancer Institute's Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER.

Understand Mammograpy. Make sure you know everything there is to know about mammography for women with breast implants. Having breast implants can reduce the effectiveness of mammography but you can maximize the effectiveness by going to a lab where the mammogram technician has experience with breast implants. Be up front about it and be clear with the technician and your ob/gyn that you want special care taken.

Additional Reading:

• When and How to do a Breast Self Exam (BSE) - Instructional web pages from the Breast Care Information Service, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
• Breast Cancer Detection & Symptoms - from the American Cancer Society

Section Contents

• Information on the Internet Main Page

• Early Detection (You are here) - Learn about the importance of regular examinations and how they provide your first line of defense.

• Treatment - Discussion of some of the treatment options available

• Reconstruction Options - An overview of reconstruction options, should a woman choose reconstruction after treatment.

• Visitor's Stories - Experiences from visitors to the site.

  • Kari's Story - Learn about the woman who was the driving force behind this section of the site.

  • Connie's Story - Read about her breast cancer and treatment.

• Links to other Breast Cancer Information Sites - Other online resources you can use to learn more about Breast Cancer.