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:

* Mammogram: A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. It is the most common screening tool for breast cancer.

* Breast ultrasound: A breast ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the breast. It is often used to further evaluate a suspicious area seen on a mammogram.

* Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the breast: An MRI of the breast uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the breast. It is often used to screen women who are at high risk for breast cancer.

* Clinical breast exam: A clinical breast exam is a physical exam of the breast performed by a doctor or nurse.

Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer screening is the process of looking for breast cancer in women who do not have any symptoms of the disease. Screening is important because it can help to detect breast cancer early, when it is more likely to be successfully treated.

The American Cancer Society recommends that women should start annual mammograms at age 40. Women who are at high risk for breast cancer may need to start screening earlier.

Talk to your doctor about your individual risk for breast cancer and what screening schedule is right for you.

If You Have Symptoms of Breast Cancer

If you have any symptoms of breast cancer, such as a lump in the breast, nipple discharge, or changes in the size or shape of the breast, see your doctor right away.