Breast Health

Breast Health Summary 1. Regular Self-Exams Breast self-exams help individuals become familiar with the normal look and feel of their breasts. Perform monthly, ideally a few days after the menstrual period ends. Look for changes in shape, size, or feel, and report any unusual lumps, pain, or nipple discharge to a healthcare provider. 2. Clinical Breast Exams Performed by a healthcare professional. Recommended every 1–3 years for women in their 20s and 30s, and annually for women 40 and over. 3. Mammograms Screening mammograms detect early signs of breast cancer. Typically recommended annually or biennially starting at age 40–50, depending on individual risk factors and medical guidelines. Diagnostic mammograms are used if there are symptoms or abnormalities detected. 4. Risk Factors Non-modifiable: Age, family history, genetics (e.g., BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations), personal history of breast cancer, dense breast tissue. Modifiable: Alcohol use, obesity, lack of physical activity, hormone replacement therapy after menopause. 5. Prevention & Lifestyle Maintain a healthy weight. Exercise regularly (at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week). Limit alcohol (no more than 1 drink per day for women). Breastfeed if possible. Avoid or limit hormone replacement therapy. 6. Genetics & Family History Genetic counseling may be recommended for those with a strong family history. BRCA gene testing can assess hereditary breast cancer risk. 7. Common Conditions Fibrocystic breasts: Non-cancerous lumps or discomfort, often fluctuating with menstrual cycles. Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that may be painful but are usually benign. Benign tumors: Like fibroadenomas, common in younger women. 8. When to Seek Medical Advice A new lump or mass Swelling of all or part of the breast Skin irritation or dimpling Nipple retraction or pain Redness, scaliness, or thickening of the nipple or breast skin Nipple discharge (especially if bloody or clear and spontaneous)