As they do so, they spread to other parts of the body, invading and destroying your body's tissues and organs. There are many different forms of cancer, a few of them mainly affecting women. Most women are aware of breast cancer and cervical cancer, and are screened for these by their doctors during their annual exam. Another form of cancer that isn't as likely to be discovered early is ovarian cancer. If left undetected and untreated, all of these cancers can cause death.
Breast cancer grows rather slowly.
For this reason, it may be growing for several years before it becomes large enough to feel with your hand while doing a routine self exam. That is why mammograms are so important. A mammogram is an x-ray type of exam that detects lumps much smaller than ones that can be felt. Your chances of breast cancer may be increased if you have a history of breast cancer in your family. Doctors urge any woman over the age of 40 to have an annual mammogram.