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Breast Health Early cancer detection saves lives. A combination of mammography, clinical breast exam (CBE) and Breast Self-Exam (BSE) is recommended for early breast cancer detection. Breast Awareness and Breast Self Exam: Starting at age 20, a woman should be aware of how her breasts normally look and feel and report any changes to her health care provider (breast awareness). Another option is choosing to use a step-by-step approach specific method of Breast Self Exam (BSE). � BSE should be done monthly. The incidence of breast cancer is higher for black women aged less than 40 years than for white women aged less than 40; however, both black and white women aged less than 35 years have the lowest breast cancer survival rates of all age groups. Breast self-examination (BSE) and clinical breast examination (CBE) are the only early detection/screening techniques recommended to this age group (ages 20-35). � Uses a systematic method for a thorough exam (includes visual and palpation)�ask your primary care physician or a qualified health professional to demonstrate the technique to you. � Helps you recognize changes in breast tissue and prompts seeking clinical consultation. � Request assistance from clinician regarding your normal breast nodularity; consult with a clinician for any suspicious finding that is a change. � Practice monthly to make routine and increase confidence with technique. Clinical Breast Exam: This examination is performed by a licensed clinician. � Every 1-3 years in 20s-30s; annually after age 40. � Includes: health history, visual inspection, axillary node examination, breast tissue examination, documentation. Mammography: The goal of mammography is to detect breast cancer at its earliest stage. Early detection maximizes the patient's chance for cure. Mammography can also detect pre-cancerous lesions. � Baseline at age 35 years (or may start at age 30 if special high risk situations apply). � Annually starting at age 40 and continue as long as the woman is in good health is the recommendation for all women at average risk and having no symptoms. � 15% False negative rate (range of 8-40%). For more information, visit: |