Breast cancer is no longer a death sentence to the approximately 192,000 women and 1,500 men who will be diagnosed this year according to the American Cancer Society. The death rates of breast cancer are on the decline and if caught early, through self-breast exams and mammograms, breast cancer can be treated successfully, and in some cases even cured.

Importance of Early Detection

The biggest factor for breast cancer is age, with the average woman being diagnosed in her early 60's. The statistic of one in eight women being diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime is frightening, which is why women need to be vigilant about monthly self-breast exams and mammograms.

Mammograms and Self Examination

One of the greatest arsenals at a woman's disposal is self-breast exam (BSE). Regular and repeated examinations of the breast are the only way to become familiar with the changes that occur. Experts recommend that women begin performing monthly self-breast exams at the age of 20. The best time to perform these exams is just before your monthly period ends. If you discover a lump or any abnormal changes, contact a medical professional for a clinical breast evaluation.

The National Cancer Institute recommends mammograms for women over the age of 40 and earlier if there is a strong family history of breast cancer. Mammography is the most effective tool available in detecting breast cancer early. MRI mammograms are being used in women at high risk of developing breast cancer and those with extremely dense breasts.

Researchers are exploring ways to make mammography more accurate, but at the present time it is the best arsenal we have in detecting breast cancer in its earliest stages. If a lump or area of concern is suspicious, it is usually followed up with an ultrasound and/or biopsy.

Treatment of Breast Cancer

The treatment for breast cancer falls into two categories, local and systemic. Treatment depends on the size and location of the tumor, the results of lab tests which include hormone receptors and genetic analysis, and the stage of the disease.

Surgical Options

The first decision any woman has to make is the local treatment for breast cancer which involves surgical removal of the tumor. Mastectomy involves removal of the breast and possibly axillary lymph node dissection to see if the cancer has spread (metastasized).

Lumpectomy or partial mastectomy is a breast-sparing procedure where only the cancerous tissue is removed to gain clean

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