You Have The Power

Take an active role in the prevention of breast diseases and breast cancer.  Doing a monthly breast self-exam is the best way to find any changes or lumps in your breasts.  You know your breasts better than any doctor or health care provider, so if you notice anything that looks or feels different than normal, call your doctor right away.  Remember, there's no need to panic; most breast lumps aren't cancer.

Of course, it's vital to have a clinical exam at least once a year and a mammogram as directed by your physician to insure that you remain healthy.

The American Cancer Society Recommends

• Women 40 or older should have a mammogram and a clinical breast exam by a doctor or nurse every year and should do a breast self exam every month.
• Women under 40 should have a clinical breast exam at least every three years and do a breast self exam every month.