Breast cancer – early detection
The signs of breast cancer are different for everyone. Sometimes they are easy to notice, such as hard lumps in the breast or underarm or changes in the shape and size of the breast. Other times, signs of breast cancer can go unnoticed and testing with special X-ray equipment is needed. Yet, only 50 percent of women in the U.S. get an annual mammogram or clinical breast exam, according to the Susan G. Komen for a Cure Foundation.
“Early detection is the best detection,” says Vickie Henry, a Parkland Community Development Specialist. “Our goal is to educate women on the importance of the yearly mammogram and clinical breast exam as well as monthly breast self-examinations.”
Give yourself the gift of good health this holiday season. Make a commitment to take care of your breasts through prevention and early detection.
Early detection is the best protection. Follow these breast cancer screening guidelines from the American Cancer Society:
- Starting in 20s: Begin performing breast self-exams. Consult your health care provider to schedule a clinical breast exam.
- Age 20s and 30s: Have a clinical breast exam every three years. Perform breast self-exams around the same time every month.
- Age 40 and over: Have a mammogram and clinical breast exam annually. Continue performing breast self-exams around the same time every month.
Learn more about Parkland's Comprehensive Breast Center.