Types of Cancer > Breast Cancer > Screening & Detection

Screening & Detection for Breast Cancer

Breast cancer survival rates are climbing thanks to early detection. Regular mammography, clinical breast exams and self exams are the primary tools of early detection.

Regular screening and reporting any breast changes to a physician can help women to discover breast cancer at an early stage when it's most curable.

Signs of breast cancer include:

• a lump or swelling
• skin irritation or dimpling
• nipple pain or the nipple turning inward
• redness or scaliness of the nipple or breast skin
• discharge other than breast milk
• a lump in the underarm area

The American Cancer Society recommends:

• Monthly breast self exams for women age 20 and older
• Clinical breast exams every three years for women from 20 to 39
• Screening mammograms and clinical breast exams every year for women 40 and older

Mammography
Mammography is a detailed x-ray of the breast that can detect abnormalities even before a lump can be felt. At the Breast Center, mammographies are performed by experienced, licensed technicians on state-of-the art equipment certified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Screening mammograms are administered as a baseline exam. If a screening mammogram detects a suspicious area, a more detailed diagnostic mammogram may be performed. The hospital has computer-aided detection (CAD) capabilities to scan mammograms for abnormalities.

Ultrasound and Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Women with glandular or dense breasts are harder to image with mammography. In these cases, physicians may use ultrasound to augment the mammography image or recommend women undergo magnetic resonance imaging.