Breast lump Health Article

Prevention

Breast cancer screening is an important way to find breast cancer early, when it is most easily treated and cured.

• Get regular mammograms.
• If you are over age 20, consider doing a monthly breast self-exam (See: Breast self exam)
• If you are over age 20, have a complete breast exam by your provider at least every 3 years -- every year if you are over 40.

Having fibrocystic breast tissue, mastitis, or breast tenderness related to PMS does NOT put you at greater risk for breast cancer. Having fibrocystic breasts does, however, make your self-exam more confusing, because there are many normal lumps and bumps.

To prevent breast cancer:

• Exercise regularly
• Reduce fat intake
• Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, and other high fiber foods
• Do not drink more than 1 or 1 1/2 glasses of alcohol a day

References

Saslow D, Boetes C, Burke W, et al. American Cancer Society guidelines for breast screening with MRI as an adjunct to mammography. CA Cancer J Clin. 2007;57(2):75-89.

Marchant DJ. Benign breast disease. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am. 2002;29(1):1-20.

Klein S. Evaluation of palpable breast masses. Am Fam Physician. 2005;71(9):1731-1738.