You should check your breasts every month beginning about age 20. At this early age, any small lumps are probably just normal breast glands and ducts. Over time you will get used to how your breasts normally feel so that you're able to tell if a new lump appears. The best way to find breast lumps is to do 3 things:
* Have regular mammograms (usually every 1-2 years starting around age 40).
* Have your doctor check your breasts.
* Check your breasts yourself every month.
Doing all these things gives you the best chance to find cancer as early as you can. Finding breast cancer early makes treatment much easier and more effective. Also check your breasts a few days after your period (when your breasts are usually less sore). If you don't have periods or if they come at varying times, check your breasts at the same time, every month. Also check for the following signs:
* Any new lump (which may or may not be painful or tender)
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* Unusual thickening of your breasts
* Sticky or bloody discharge from your nipples
* Any changes in the skin of your nipples or breasts, such as puckering or dimpling
* An unusual increase in the size of one breast
* One breast unusually lower than the other mammogram is the most effective way to find breast cancer early, up to 2 years before the lump is even large enough to feel. A mammogram is a special kind of X-ray of your breasts. The amount of radiation used in the X-ray is very small and not harmful.
Mammograms detect cancer because cancer is more dense (thicker) than the normal part of the breast.
