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

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.