Early Detection Is the Goal

Early Detection Is the Goal

In breast cancer treatment, early diagnosis gives the best possible chance for a cure. Ideally, this means that the cancer will be found before you feel a lump in your breast. And the best way to find breast cancer early is with regular mammograms, read by a doctor who specializes in reading images of the breast (mammographers).

It is very common for women to be called back after a routine mammogram for an additional mammogram. Be aware that this happens about 10 percent of the time, and does not necessarily mean that there is a problem.

If there is an abnormality on your mammogram, you may be asked to have additional mammograms, or possibly to have a biopsy of the suspicious area with a stereotactic biopsy. This is a less-invasive alternative to surgery for taking tissue samples from the breast for study.

Remember, early detection is your best protection against breast cancer. Do your part with regular self-exams and annual exams by your doctor. Add an annual mammogram if you are 40 or older. And follow up any changes in your breasts promptly by scheduling an appointment with a breast specialist.

Breakthroughs in Early Detection