A woman should begin practicing breast self-examination by the age of 20 and continue the practice throughout her life - even during pregnancy and after menopause. BSE should be done regularly at the same time every month. Regular BSE teaches you to know how your breasts normally feel so that you can more readily detect any change. Changes may include:

• development of a lump
• a discharge other than breast milk
• swelling of the breast
• skin irritation or dimpling
• nipple abnormalities (i.e., pain, redness, scaliness, turning inward)

If you notice any of these changes, see your healthcare provider as soon as possible for evaluation.

A breast examination by a physician or nurse trained to evaluate breast problems should be part of a woman's physical examination. The American Cancer Society recommends:

• Between the ages of 20 and 39, women should have a clinical breast examination by a health professional every three years.

• After age 40, women should have a breast examination by a health professional every year.

A physical breast examination by a physician or nurse is very similar to the procedures used for breast self-examination. Women who routinely practice BSE will be prepared to ask questions and have their concerns addressed during this time.

Mammography is a low-dose x-ray of the breasts to find changes that may occur. It is the most common imaging technique. Mammography can detect cancer or other problems before a lump becomes large enough to be felt, as well as assist in the diagnosis of other breast problems. However, a biopsy is required to confirm the presence of cancer.

Since there is controversy among cancer organizations regarding when to begin having mammograms, as well as how often, talk with your physician about a mammography schedule that is appropriate for you based on your overall health and medical history, risk factors, and personal opinion or preference.

According to the National Cancer Institute, women in their 40s and older should begin having a screening mammogram on a regular basis, every one to two years. But, the American Cancer Society recommends that by age 40, women should have a screening mammogram every year. (A diagnostic mammogram may be required when a questionable area is found during a screening mammogram.)

Both organizations suggest that women who may be at increased risk for breast cancer should talk with their physicians about whether to begin having mammograms at an earlier age.