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breast health

Breast Self-Exam

A breast self-exam is done to detect changes that could lead to breast cancer. To learn what is normal for your breasts and to find any problems, you should do a breast self-exam once a month. It is one of the best things you can do for your health. Finding and treating breast cancer early can save your life.

Detecting and Treating Breast Problems

A woman's breasts are always changing. They change during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause (when menstrual periods end). Along with these normal changes, problems can arise. Most of the problems are minor, but a few can be serious. One major problem, breast cancer, is a leading cause of cancer deaths in women.

Fibrocystic Breast Changes

Women with fibrocystic breast changes have lumpy, tender breasts. These changes most often occur near the time of a woman's period. Fibrocystic breast changes are not a disease and they do not increase your risk of cancer. However, if you feel a lump, it should be checked.

Your Breasts

Mammography

Mammography is an X-ray technique used to study the breasts. It can help doctors find breast cancer at an early stage (when treatment is more likely to succeed). About 1 in 8 women will get breast cancer during their lives. Most cases of breast cancer occur in women who are past menopause. By age 40 years, mammography should be a regular part of your health care.