Lecture Notes

The American Cancer Society provides guidelines for early detection of breast cancer. The screening recommendations present guidelines for average-risk, asymptomatic women aged 40 or older and 20-39 years of age . Women at increased risk should talk with their doctors about the benefits and limitations of starting mammography screening earlier, having additional tests, such as MRI, or having more frequent exams. Mammography is the use of X-rays to detect breast tumors before they can be seen or felt. Early detection is an important part of preventive care. The earlier breast cancer is found, the better the chances that treatment will be effective and the breast can be saved. The goal is to discover cancer prior to symptoms appearing.   Because a large majority of tumors are detected by women themselves, a heightened awareness of her normal breast composition can help a woman to notice changes and, when necessary, seek early medical attention. Breast self-examination (BSE) is an option for women in their 20s and 30s. Research has shown that BSE plays a slight role in discovering breast cancer compared with finding a breast lump by chance or just being aware of what is normal for each woman. Women who have breast implants can also do BSE. These women should have their surgeon help them identify the edges of the implant so that they can know what they are feeling. Image: McGraw Hill