Breast Health
About 90 percent of women will develop a breast lump in their lifetime. While most breast lumps are benign (non-cancerous) fibrocystic breast changes, breast cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer-related death in women. In fact, about one in eight women will develop breast cancer during her lifetime, making it important to stay proactive about your breast health.
Breast Health is a 3-Step Approach
- Breast Self-Exam
- Professional Breast Exam
- Mammography
Breast Self-Exam
Knowing what’s normal for your breasts can help you notice changes early. Conducting a monthly breast self-exam can be helpful for some women to stay in tune with how their breasts normally look and feel. The best time to perform a self-exam is about seven to ten days after your period begins, when your breasts are least tender or swollen. If you are postmenopausal, select the same day each month to stay consistent.
- Watch for changes in size, shape, or skin texture.
- Look for dimpling, puckering, or nipple changes.
- While occasional clear, greenish, or milky fluid may be normal, spontaneous or bloody discharge should be evaluated by your provider.
If you notice a lump or any changes, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider.
Professional Breast Exam
Professional breast exams provide extra assurance that you haven’t missed anything during your own monthly breast self-exam. During annual check-ups, you can have your breast examined by your provider—someone who is skilled at identifying problems and knowing when and how to follow up.
American Cancer Society recommends:
- 20-40 years old: every one to three years
- 40+ years old: every year
Mammography
Mammograms are the most effective screening tool for detecting breast cancer early—sometimes years before it can be felt. These X-ray images of the inside of your breasts are used to screen for or locate breast changes in women regularly. They can also help in the evaluation of any breast changes found by you or your doctor. The American Cancer Society recommends that women aged 40 and older should get a mammogram every year. Your provider may suggest starting earlier if you are at a higher risk.
Understanding Your Risk
Some factors can increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer, including:
- Age (risk increases after age 50)
- Family history (mother, sister, or daughter with breast cancer)
- Early menstrual period (before age 12)
- Late first pregnancy (after age 30) or never having given birth
- Previous breast biopsies, especially those showing atypical hyperplasia
Your provider may use tools like the Gail Model to assess your individual risk.
Taking Care of Your Breast Health
While breast cancer cannot always be prevented, you can support your overall health and reduce your risk by:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fiber and low in saturated fat
- Exercising regularly
- Limiting alcohol and caffeine intake
- Talking with your provider about vitamins, supplements, and hormone therapy
Breast health is about being proactive by knowing your body, following recommended screening guidelines, and working closely with your healthcare team. If you notice a change, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment right away.
