Breast Cancer Detection, Screening & Diagnosis: How Doctors Find It

Breast Cancer Detection

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the breast. It is the most common cancer among women in the United States, after skin cancer.

There are a number of different ways to detect breast cancer, including:

* Breast self-exam (BSE): This is a monthly exam that women can perform on themselves to check for any changes in their breasts.

* Clinical breast exam (CBE): This is an exam that a doctor or nurse performs on a woman's breasts to check for any changes.

* Mammogram: This is an X-ray of the breasts that can be used to detect breast cancer.

* Ultrasound: This is a painless procedure that uses sound waves to create images of the breast.

* Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): This is a type of imaging test that uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the breast.

The American Cancer Society recommends that women start getting regular mammograms at age 40. Women who have a higher risk of breast cancer, such as those with a family history of the disease, may need to start getting mammograms earlier.

Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer screening is the process of looking for breast cancer in women who have no symptoms of the disease. Screening can help to find breast cancer early, when it is more likely to be successfully treated.

The American Cancer Society recommends that women have a mammogram every year starting at age 40. Women who have a higher risk of breast cancer, such as those with a family history of the disease, may need to start getting mammograms earlier.

Other breast cancer screening methods, such as breast self-exam and clinical breast exam, can also be used to detect breast cancer. However, mammograms are the most effective screening method for finding breast cancer early.

Importance of Breast Cancer Detection and Screening

Breast cancer is a serious disease, but it is also one that can be successfully treated if it is found early. Breast cancer detection and screening are important for finding breast cancer early, when it is more likely to be successfully treated.

If you are a woman, talk to your doctor about your risk of breast cancer and what screening methods are right for you.