Breast cancer is one of the few cancers that can be detected in the early stages through regular screenings. These screenings are self-breast exams and mammograms. Women should perform a self-breast exam on a regular basis to check for lumps. Your health care provider can give you specific steps and tell you what to feel for during an exam. If a lump is detected, your health care provider will usually perform a mammogram and an ultrasound to determine if the lump is a cyst or a tumor.
Breast cancer has a survival rate that is increasing.
Awareness, screening and early detection can make the difference between life and death. The American Cancer Society recommends that women between the ages of 35 and 40 have a baseline mammogram. Ultrasound of the pelvic area is used to look for abnormal findings in the uterus or fallopian tubes. Obstetric ultrasound can determine the age and development of an embryo or fetus. A fetal biophysical can be done to ensure the continued health and growth of a baby through the late months of gestation.