The keys to maintaining sound breast health are awareness, prevention and early detection. Getting the facts about breast cancer and mammograms is an important step in taking care of your health. At the Bronson Center for Women, we want to do everything possible to help you understand how to minimize your risks by offering access to the most up-to-date information and technology.

Breast cancer is a subject most women don't like to think about. But, according to the American Cancer Society, a woman in the United States has a 1 in 8 lifetime risk of developing breast cancer. Her lifetime risk of dying from breast cancer, however, is much lower: 1 in 29, and early detection is the best protection. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the better the chance of survival. If the cancer has not spread, the survival rate for breast cancer detected early is as high as 94%.

Breast Self-Exam

More than 90% of all breast abnormalities are detected by women themselves. Performing a monthly breast self-exam is an important part of your breast health.

The best time to do a breast self-exam is about a week after your period starts each month. If you no longer have a period, choose a date and do the exam on the same date each month.

A combination of mammography, breast exam by your doctor and breast self-exam is recommended for the best results in finding breast cancer early.

While standing or sitting erect, press firmly with the pads of your three middle fingers, using a circular motion and gently gliding over the skin. (Use your right hand to check your left breast; use your left hand to check your right breast.) Do not lift your fingers as you move around the breast in a circular pattern. Check your entire chest area, including your breasts and underarm pits. Feel for a lump, hard knot, thickening, or discharge from the nipple.

Move around the breast in a set way. You can choose either the circle (A), the up and down (B) or the wedge (C). Do the exam the same way every time. It will help you make sure that you've gone over the whole breast area and help you detect changes.

Repeat the same check while lying down with a towel under your shoulder.

Look in a mirror. Check for changes in the shape, the size or the look of the skin and the nipples. If you notice any changes, notify your doctor.