Monthly self-breast examinations are
critical in noticing lumps or changes in the breasts. The patients
themselves find approximately 80% of all breast lumps. Breast
self-examinations, along with mammograms, are the most important ways
that a patient can help detect breast cancer at its earliest stages.
There is really no such thing as "no risk factors" because, 2/3
of all breast cancers are diagnosed in women who have "no risk
factors".
Certain things to look for during a breast exam:
Any breast lump,
particularly if it does not disappear with menses, should be checked.
A thickening,
fullness, or prominent area in one breast, not felt in the other,
should be checked.
Any lump felt by a
postmenopausal woman should be assessed promptly. Do not wait for a
month or two.
A rash, or dry,
scaly, itchy area in one breast, especially near the nipple, should be
checked.
Nipple discharge, if
it occurs spontaneously, is bloody, or unilateral should be checked.
Any dimpling of the
breast skin or nipple changes (inverted or retracted) should be
assessed immediately.
Any lump felt under
the axilla, especially if it is only on one side, should be checked.
Any man who notices a
lump in his breast or chest area should be evaluated (1% of breast
cancers occur in men).
If you have any
questions regarding breast disease please call the Advanced Surgical
Associates at
(919) 851-9193. We'll gladly answer all your questions and
steer you in the right direction.
530 New
Waverly Place, Suite 304
Cary, NC 27511
Phone: (919) 851-9193
Fax: (919) 851-9223
