Breast Self-Exams

Programs and Services

Breast Cancer and Breast Self-Exams:
Early Detection Can Save Your Life

The breast self-exam (BSE) continues to be a valuable tool in early detection of breast cancer. Women should learn about doing monthly self-exams beginning at age 20 as part of a program that includes a regular exam by a medical professional and age/health-appropriate mammography.

Women may have heard or read that the value of the BSE is questionable (Canadian Medical Association Journal, Vol. 164, No. 13: 1837-1846). However, breast cancer professionals continue to recognize the value of the BSE as an important part of early cancer detection.

Video Tool

Visit the Susan B. Komen for the Cure® Web site for an online breast self-exam video tool that teaches you how to look and feel for any changes in your breasts.

“There are a number of good reasons women should learn and practice BSE,” said Julie Griffie, APRN-BC, CS, AORN, clinical nurse specialist for the Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin Breast Cancer Program. “Before age 40, women should get to know how their breasts normally look and feel, so they’ll be aware of any changes. And although clinical exams and mammography are proven and significant tools in early detection, there are some breast tissue changes — a small percentage — that are not visible on a mammogram but will be detected by a woman or her doctor through a physical exam.

“The real goal of BSE,” Griffie said, “is to report any changes to your doctor immediately. Many breast cancers that are found and treated early result in good outcomes for those women. We want to use every weapon available to prevent advanced or recurrent cancer and reduce breast cancer deaths.”

The American Cancer Society provides the following screening recommendations for women:

Women age 40 and older should have a screening mammogram every year and should continue to do so for as long as they are in good health.
Women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast exam as part of a periodic (regular) health exam by a health professional, preferably every three years.
BSE is an option for women starting in their 20s. Women should be told about the benefits and limitations of BSE. Women should report any breast changes to their health professional right away.
Women at increased risk should talk with their doctors about the benefits and limitations of starting mammograms when they are younger, having additional tests (such as breast ultrasound or MRI) or having more frequent exams.

For more information on breast self-exams, clinical breast exams or mammography, visit the American Cancer Society Web site, call the American Cancer Society at 800-ACS-2345 or ask your doctor or nurse.

Author: Marla Fraunfelder

Last Review Date: Dec. 7, 2009

Online Editor(s): Christopher Sadler