 |
Boost Your Odds Against
Breast Cancer with a Clinical Breast Exam
Most women probably know
by now that they should
get a yearly mammogram
after turning age 40. Such repeated
screening goes a long way toward
detecting breast cancer at an earlier,
more treatable stage. Another
valuable screening tool recommended
by many experts is a clinical breast
exam (CBE).
According to Hasmik Diratzouian,
M.D., a radiation oncologist at
Riverview Medical Center, "Physical
examination remains an important
method of detection of breast cancer,
particularly among younger women for whom mammography is less sensitive
and not performed as frequently."
A thorough CBE typically takes
about 10 minutes. During this exam,
the doctor most likely will:
- note any differences in the size or shape of your breasts
- check the breast skin for rashes or dimpling
- squeeze the nipples to see if fluid is present
- carefully feel each breast, underarm, and collarbone area to check for lumps.
One of the most important reasons
to have a CBE is that it offers you
a chance to get familiar with what’s
"normal" for your breasts. "Having a
baseline for comparison is so important
when it comes to breast health," says Dr. Diratzouian. "By understanding
what is normal for your body, you
and your physician can better identify
and address any irregularities that
may develop in the future."
Call your doctor if you ever notice
any changes in the normal size or
shape of your breasts. Call, too, if you
discover any of the following:
discover any of the following:
- A lump
- Thick or firm tissue in your breast or armpit
- Nipple discharge, tenderness, or dimpling
- Breast itching, redness, scales, dimples, or puckers
The American Cancer Society
advises women age 40 and older
to have a CBE every year.
|
