Early Detection

Know the Signs

Except for skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, but it can be successfully treated. Screening tests can find cancer early when it’s most treatable.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure® recommends that you:

1. Know your risk 

• Talk to your family to learn about your family health history
• Talk to your provider about your personal risk of breast cancer

2. Get screened

• Ask your doctor which screening tests are right for you if you are at a higher risk.
• Have a mammogram every year starting at age 40 if you are at average risk, and annually starting at age 35 with a family history of breast cancer.
• Have a clinical breast exam at least every 3 years starting at age 20, and every year starting at age 35.

3. Know what is normal for you

• See your health care provider if you notice any of these breast changes: 

• • Lump, hard knot, or thickening inside the breast or underarm area
  • Swelling, warmth, redness, or darkening of the breast
  • Change in the size or shape of the breast
  • Dimpling or puckering of the skin
  • Itchy, scaly sore, or rash on the nipple
  • Pulling in of your nipple or other parts of the breast
  • Nipple discharge that starts suddenly
  • New pain in one spot that doesn’t go away