Caring For Your Breasts: The second in the series of screening protocol updates Women’s First Health Center Drs. Sylvester, Youngren, Lo and Sansobrino Created by Megan Blomeyer, St. George’s University, MS-IV

Breast Cancer Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women, and is the second leading cause of cancer related death in women. In fact, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime.

Mammograms The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends a mammograms every two years beginning at age 40 years as a screening tool for breast cancer. While at 50 years of age, yearly examinations are suggested because the incidence of breast cancer increases with age.

Clinical Breast Exams The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology suggests a clinical breast exam conducted by a physician every 1-3 years for women aged years. Annual exams are recommended beginning at age 40 years.

Self Breast Examination As of 2011, self breast examinations are no longer recommended. Instead, the concept of “breast self awareness” is instituted. This idea encourages women to understand the normal appearance and feel of their breasts, while not requiring women to examine their breasts in any particular interval or with specific techniques.

Summary In summary, a mammogram every 2 years beginning at age 40 then yearly starting at 50 years old is suggested. Additionally, a breast examination conducted by a physician every 1-3 years from ages years old followed by annual exams starting at age 40.

Additional Information Visit the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology website, or ask your doctor for more information on breast care.

References The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Annual Mammogram Now Recommended for Women Beginning at Age July Web. 24 June ases/2011/Annual%20Mammograms%20Now%20Recommended%20for %20Women%20Beginning%20at%20Age%2040.aspx National Breast Cancer Foundation. Breast Cancer Facts Web. 14 July