About Breast Cancer > Early Detection

Early Detection

According to the American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is detected early, and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%. Early detection includes doing monthly breast self-exams, and scheduling regular clinical breast exams and mammograms. It is recommend to learn more about breast self examination to increase chances for early detection.

Breast Cancer Signs and Symptoms Signs & symptoms may include a lump in the breast, nipple tenderness, a change in the skin texture or appearance, nipple discharge, and more.

Breast Pain Breast pain can be the result of many things, including menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, medication, a cyst or abscess, or an injury.

Breast Lump A breast lump is a mass, growth, or swelling within the breast tissue. There are many types of breast lumps and not all breast lumps are cancer.

Breast Cyst A cyst is a fluid-filled sac that may feel like a small lump in the breast. Cysts are more common in premenopausal women and are generally harmless.

Breast Self-Exam A breast self-exam is a physical examination of the breast to check for signs of breast cancer. Adult women should perform a monthly breast self-exam.

Clinical Breast Exam Performed by a healthcare professional, a clinical breast exam is a physical and visual examination of the breast to check for signs of breast cancer.

Mammogram A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast to check for suspicious areas in the tissue. It is considered the gold standard for early detection.

How to Schedule a Mammogram Many women encounter barriers when trying to schedule a mammogram. Learn about the information you need for your next exam.

Healthy Habits Developing healthy habits, such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating healthy foods, and staying active, can help lower your risk of breast cancer.