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

Breast Cancer Detection

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, after skin cancer. One in eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so it's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and to talk to your doctor about getting regular mammograms.

Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

- A new lump or mass in the breast or armpit

- A change in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast

- Nipple discharge (other than breast milk)

- A change in the skin of the breast, such as redness, dimpling, or thickening

- Breast pain that is new or persistent

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

There are a number of risk factors for breast cancer, including:

- Being a woman

- Getting older

- Having a family history of breast cancer

- Having a personal history of breast cancer

- Being overweight or obese

- Drinking alcohol

- Smoking

- Taking certain medications, such as hormone replacement therapy

- Having dense breasts

Screening for Breast Cancer

Regular breast cancer screening is recommended for all women over the age of 40. Mammograms are the most common screening tool, and they can be used to detect breast cancer even before it can be felt. Other screening methods include breast ultrasounds and MRI.

Early Detection is Key

Early detection of breast cancer is critical to successful treatment, so it's important to talk to your doctor about getting regular mammograms and to be aware of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer. If you have any concerns about your breast health, see your doctor right away.

Here are some additional tips for reducing your risk of breast cancer:

- Maintain a healthy weight

- Exercise regularly

- Eat a healthy diet

- Limit alcohol intake

- Quit smoking

- Talk to your doctor about your family history of breast cancer and ask about genetic testing if you are at high risk