Breast Cancer Screening

What It Is, When to Do It, and Why It Matters

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women, with an estimated 1 in 8 women (12%) developing the disease in their lifetime. However, with early detection, it is highly treatable, and complete recovery is possible.

Three Key Steps for Early Detection

1️. Breast Self-Examination – Helps women become familiar with their breasts.
2️. Medical Consultation – Visit a breast specialist if any symptoms or changes appear.
3️. Annual Mammogram & Clinical Examination – Recommended from age 40, unless there are higher risk factors.

Studies have shown that regular preventive screening reduces breast cancer mortality by 25%. All asymptomatic women should undergo screening, while those with a family history or risk factors may need to start earlier.

Recommended Screening by Age

✔️ Ages 25-40

• Clinical breast examination every 1-3 years by a specialist
• Breast ultrasound from age 35 (if necessary)
• Monthly self-examination

✔️ Ages 40+

• Annual clinical examination
• Annual mammogram (+ supplemental ultrasound if needed)
• Monthly self-examination

🔹 Breast screening should continue until at least age 70 and beyond based on a doctor’s recommendation, as the risk decreases with age but does not disappear completely.

Breast Anatomy

The breast is a modified sweat gland composed of 15-20 lobules and ducts that connect to the nipple, allowing milk to flow during breastfeeding. The nipple is surrounded by the areola, which contains sebaceous glands (Montgomery glands), sometimes mistaken for lumps.

The breast extends into the armpit (axillary tail), where changes can also occur. Breast density varies with age, affecting screening techniques.

Breast Examination: Who, Where, When & How?

All women, from puberty onwards, should be familiar with their breasts. Changes may be noticed while dressing, bathing, or exercising.

✅ Comprehensive breast evaluation includes:

• Self-examination
• Clinical examination by a breast specialist
• Mammogram and/or ultrasound (as needed)

It’s best to undergo screening at specialized breast clinics with expert staff and advanced equipment, ensuring accurate diagnosis and a comfortable experience.

Breast Self-Examination

Even though mammograms detect small cancers early, self-exams remain valuable for early detection of changes. They are especially useful for women with limited access to mammograms.

When to Perform Self-Exams?

• Between days 8-10 of the menstrual cycle, when estrogen levels are lower, and breasts are less sensitive.
• Once per month, on the same day of the cycle.
• Post-menopause: Choose a fixed day each month for consistency.

How to Perform a Self-Exam

1️. Lying Down:

• Lie on your back, which makes it easier to feel abnormalities.
• Place one hand behind your head and use the fingertips of the other hand (index, middle, and ring fingers) to gently feel the breast.
• Move in circular motions, covering the entire breast.
• Press lightly on the nipple to check for discharge.
• Repeat on the other breast.

2️. Standing (In Front of a Mirror):

• Observe breast shape, symmetry, skin changes, nipple changes, or dimpling.
• Repeat with arms raised above the head.

The goal is to recognize the normal shape and texture of your breasts so that you can quickly detect any changes and consult a doctor.

Early detection saves lives! Regular breast checks, whether at home or with a doctor, ensure timely diagnosis and effective treatment.