Breast cancer can occur at any age, but it becomes more common as a woman gets older. Do a breast self-exam each month. Have a clinical breast exam by a health care professional every three years. Over Have a mammogram every year. Have a clinical breast exam by a health care professional every year.
Mammograms use less radiation than a dentist's x-ray.
A mammogram can detect some cancers as small as a pin head. That may be up to 2 years before a lump or change can be felt. Starting at the age of 20, all women should check their breasts for lumps, thickness, or other changes every month. By examining your breasts on a regular basis, you will know how your breasts normally feel. If a change should occur in your breasts, you will be able to identify it quickly and call it to the attention of your physician.