The majority of women diagnosed with breast cancer are over age 50. The breast is very responsive to hormonal changes. These hormones affect the glandular tissues and fibrous tissue. Because of the constant changes in the breast, it is not uncommon for either glandular or fibrous tissue to become prominent, producing a lump in the breast, which is usually detected by a breast self exam or an annual mammogram. The only way to know with absolute certainty whether one of these lumps is benign or malignant is to perform a breast biopsy which involves taking a small amount of tissue from the lump and examining it microscopically for signs of any malignancy.
Early detection is the most important factor in the diagnosis of breast cancer.
Women should remember to perform monthly self breast exams, have yearly exams by a health care provider and a routine mammogram appropriate for your age can all help in the early detection of cancer. A unique center, the Women's Pavilion encompasses health education, support groups, resources, counseling, mammography suite, breast cancer support services and maternal support services and staffs a perinatal bereavement program.