Early detection of breast cancer saves many lives by finding the disease before it has spread, but most early breast cancers show no symptoms. There are a number of screening methods that are used to detect the disease in its earliest stage.
Breast Exam
A breast exam should be performed to feel for abnormalities. Women should do self-exams regularly and have one performed by a health professional every three years before age 40 and every year after.
Mammogram
Mammograms are effective in detecting most cancers early. The American Cancer Society recommends that all women older than 40 should have a yearly mammogram.
Ultrasound
A breast ultrasound may be used in addition to a mammogram to help identify suspicious areas. An ultrasound can also help see masses more clearly in dense breasts.
MRI
Those with a high breast cancer risk or with suspicious mammogram results should have a breast MRI. An MRI may find cancer not detected by a mammogram.
Considerations
The use of early detection methods alerts doctors of abnormalities that are suspicious. A biopsy -- done through a needle or surgical removal of a mass -- is the only way to diagnose breast cancer.
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