Unfortunately, most tumors brought to the doctor's attention are an inch or more in diameter. At this size, the lymph nodes may also be involved, increasing the chances that the disease has spread to the other breast or other parts of the body. If you find a lump, see your doctor at your earliest opportunity. There is abundant information available concerning certain historical and life style factors that may increase or decrease the risk of breast cancer. Women's magazines regularly publish lists of these factors and readers eagerly scan the list to see which ones they have.
Many women find that they have none and conclude that they are relatively safe.
They may even conclude that for them individually, self-examination is not necessary. In 1982, a scientist working with the National Cancer Institute published the results of his analysis of the risk factors present in a total of approximately 2500 breast cancer patients. The message is clear. If you are a woman, you are at risk and the greatest risk factor is increasing age. Thus, you should begin a program of regular breast examination at as early an age as possible and keep it up on a regular basis.