Don't Panic: The Best Ways to Detect Breast Cancer Early

For many women, the idea of getting breast cancer is more than a little anxiety-inducing. ( we know all about it )

It's natural to want to do everything you can to lower your risk—and that includes detecting cancer early, when it's most treatable. But where do you start? What are the best ways to detect breast cancer early?

Mammograms

Mammograms are x-rays of the breast tissue and are considered one of the best ways to detect breast cancer early, especially in women over the age of 35. They can detect tumors that are too small to feel, and they can also help determine if a lump is benign or malignant. That said, mammograms are not perfect; they can miss some cancers, and they can also lead to false positives. If you're concerned about getting a mammogram, talk to your doctor about your risks and benefits.

Clinical Breast Exams

During a clinical breast exam, a doctor or nurse will examine your breasts and under your arms for lumps or changes in size or shape. Clinical breast exams are not as effective as mammograms at detecting breast cancer early, but they can be helpful in conjunction with other screening methods. Clinical breast exams are usually recommended for women in their 20s and 30s who have no family history of breast cancer.

Self-Exams

Breast self-exams (BSEs) are another way to look for changes in your breasts. The key here is to know what your breasts normally look and feel like so that you can more easily spot any changes. The best time to do a BSE is about a week after your period ends; your breasts will be less tender and more easy to investigate. To do a BSE, use your right hand to examine your left breast and then your left hand to examine your right breast. Use a firm, smooth touch as you move around each entire breast in a circular pattern moving from the outside to the nipple. Be sure to feel both above and below your collarbone as well as under your armpits—these areas are often overlooked but can still give rise to lumps or other changes. If you find anything unusual, don't panic! Many breast changes are benign, but it's always best to err on the side of caution and have it checked out by a doctor.

Self-exams aren’t for everyone, so don’t beat yourself up if you don’t enjoy doing them or if you forget from time to time—the important thing is that you’re staying aware of how your breasts look and feel. A good rule of thumb is to do one on the 1st of the month, every month so you don’t forget.

No one likes worrying about cancer—but unfortunately, it's something we all have to think about from time to time. The good news is that there are things you can do to lower your risk and increase the chances of detecting cancer early if it does develop. Mammograms, clinical breast exams, and self-breast exams are all great starting points for keeping tabs on your breast health. So don't panic—just stay informed!