Breast Cancer Awareness

11/20/2012 10:17

Breast Cancer Awareness

Do you know the most important thing you can do to help fight breast cancer? Early detection of breast cancer through screenings such as a mammogram, a clinical breast exam or a breast self exam helps identify cancer earlier, which means more treatment options and a better chance of survival.

• Mammograms - A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. American Cancer Society (ACS) and American College of Radiology (ACR) recommend mammograms every year for healthy women age 40 and older.
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• Clinical Breast Exams - A clinical breast exam (CBE) is performed by a health professional. Women in their 20s and 30s should have a CBE as part of regular health exams every 3 years, per ACS. Starting at age 40, women should have a CBE by a health professional every year.
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• Breast Self Exams - Breast self exams (BSE) are an option for women in their 20s. A health professional can explain the benefits and limitations of a BSE. ACS says performing regular BSE’s is one way for women to know how their breasts normally look and feel and to notice any changes. Report any changes to a health-care provider.
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Pledge to be proactive about your breast health: take a breast health pledge and join our Pink Ribbon Team