Breast Cancer: Steps to Finding Breast Lumps Early

How can I find breast cancer early?

The best way to find breast lumps is to do 3 things:

• Have regular mammograms (usually every 1-2 years starting around age 40).
• Have your doctor check your breasts.
• Check your breasts yourself every month.

Doing all of these things gives you the best chance to find cancer as early as you can. Finding breast cancer early makes treatment much easier and more effective.

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What is a mammogram?

A mammogram is the most effective way to find breast cancer early, up to 2 years before the lump is even large enough to feel. A mammogram is a special kind of X-ray of your breasts. The amount of radiation used in the X-ray is very small and not harmful.

Mammograms detect cancer because cancer is more dense (thicker) than the normal part of the breast. A radiologist will look at the X-rays for signs of cancer or other breast problems.