Self Exams & Mammograms

Breast Cancer Awareness Month, celebrated each October, helps to increase awareness of the disease and encourage early detection and prevention. Receiving clinical breast exams and mammograms on a regular basis, as well as performing routine self-exams are crucial steps to catching breast cancer as early as possible. When breast cancer is detected early and in the localized state, the 5-year relative survival rate is 100%. So, the best way to fight cancer is to have a plan that allows you to detect the disease in its early stages.

When should you begin your early detection plan?

• Women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast exam (CBE) as part of a regular health exam preferably every 3 years.

• Starting at age 40, women should have a CBE by a health professional every year.

• Women age 40+ should have a mammogram every year and should continue to do so as for as long as they are in good health.

Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, and limiting alcohol consumption are a few of the best ways to reduce your risk of developing breast cancer and help with your overall health.

In celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, talk with your doctor to make a plan for maintaining your health and reducing your risk of breast cancer. Share with other women the importance of early detection and regular screenings, and encourage them to make a healthy living plan too.

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Sources: National Cancer Institute, American Cancer Society, BreastCancer.org