A breast self-exam (BSE) is a step-by-step examination of your breasts that you do yourself. It is one tool that can be used to help detect changes in your breasts that may or may not be a sign of cancer. It is a way for you to notice any changes, lumps, or abnormalities in your breasts. It is also a chance for you to become familiar with what is normal for your breasts.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that all women aged 20 years and older talk to their doctor about the benefits, harms, and limitations of breast self-exams. While BSE continues to be widely promoted, there is no evidence showing a decrease in death among women who do these self-exams. Women can choose to do BSE regularly, occasionally, or never. However, even if you never do a step-by-step self exam, you should still be familiar with your body and report any changes to your doctor.
If you and your doctor decide you will do breast self-exams, here is the best way to go about doing it. Do your breast self-exam when your breasts are not swollen or tender. Follow these guidelines from the ACS:
A firm ridge in the lower curve of each breast is normal.
Remember that breast changes are not always due to cancer. But, if you do notice lumps or other abnormalities, call your doctor right away.
If you are unsure as to whether you should do BSE, talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks the self-exam.
RESOURCES:
American Cancer Society
http://www.cancer.org/
Womens' Health.gov
http://www.womenshealth.gov/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation
http://www.cbcf.org/
Canadian Cancer Society
http://www.cancer.ca/
References:
American Cancer Society guidelines for breast cancer screening: update 2003. CA-A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. May/June 2003.
How to perform a breast self-exam. American Cancer Society website. Available at: http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_6x_How_to_perform_a_breast_self_exam_5.asp. Updated November 2009. Accessed March 9, 2010.
National Cancer Institute, United States National Institutes of Health website. Available at: http://www.cancer.gov/.
Last reviewed March 2010 by Brian P. Randall, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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