How is breast cancer diagnosed?
Detection of breast cancer in its early stages--hopefully
before it moves outside the breast--can significantly improve
the chances that treatment will be successful. The survival rate
from breast cancer increases when the disease is detected and
treated early.
Women ages 20 to 39 should have a doctor perform a breast exam
every 3 years and then every year once they turn 40.
Mammography is an important method of early detection that uses
low doses of X-rays to take a picture of breast tissue. The purpose
of a mammogram is to find abnormalities that are too small to be
seen or felt. However, mammograms will not detect all breast
cancers, which is why physical breast exams are very important.
To find out if you are at increased risk for breast cancer,
consult your doctor. Your doctor can tell you your estimated 5-year
and lifetime risks for breast cancer using the Gail model.