Get to Know Your Breasts!
2004/08/23 | The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation – Ontario Chapter
Nobody wants to find a lump in their breast. But women who detect breast cancer early have a better chance of survival. If you are a woman aged 18 or older, the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation recommends you follow these three steps to monitor the health of your breasts:
- Monthly Breast Self-Examination: A breast self-examination (BSE) once a month will help you know how your breasts normally look and feel and will alert you to any changes. To learn how to do a BSE, visit the “How to Check Your Breasts” website at www.breastselfexam.ca.
- Clinical Breast Exam: Have a qualified health professional, such as a doctor or nurse, do a clinical breast exam for you every year – perhaps as part of your annual medical check-up. These professionals are trained to do clinical breast exams respectfully, compassionately and thoroughly.
- Mammogram (breast x-ray): Women under 50 should talk to their doctor about their individual risk factors for breast cancer to determine when they should start having mammograms. Women between the ages of 50 and 69 should have a mammogram every two years. Women can schedule appointments through the Ontario Breast Screening Program – a doctor’s referral is not necessary. For more information, visit www.cancercare.on.ca/prevention_breastScreening.htm.
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