Early Detection of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed type of cancer in women in the United States, with recent statistics indicating that it will develop in 13 percent of American women at some point in their lives. In addition, estimates show that 30 percent of all newly diagnosed cancers in American women in 2021 will be of this kind.

Even further, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that breast cancer will account for 12 percent of all cancer diagnoses worldwide in 2021.

Due to how common this disease is not only in the United States but also globally, breast cancer awareness and early detection are crucial. Keep reading for a must-know primer on breast cancer.

As scary as it may be to be diagnosed with breast cancer, it may be comforting to know that early detection can very well save your life.

In fact, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, the five-year survival rate of those who catch and treat stage 0 or stage 1 breast cancer—essentially meaning that the cancer hasn’t spread to other parts of the body—is an astounding 100 percent.

Since the survival rate drops as the cancer spreads and its stages progress, the importance of getting regular mammograms (low-dose X-rays of the breasts) cannot be overstated.

The most common symptoms of breast cancer include physical changes in one or both breasts and/or nipples, such as:

• breast lumps
• tenderness in the nipples
• new pain, swelling, shrinkage, scaling, or asymmetry
• clear or bloody discharge

While it is important to be aware of such sensations when they arise, the American Cancer Society notes that many women don’t experience such symptoms. As such, mammograms are absolutely necessary to rule out this disease.

Evidence behind the efficacy of breast self-exams and clinical breast exams is limited, which further emphasizes the importance of diagnostic imaging through mammograms.

However, if you do notice any unusual pain or physical changes in your breasts, consult your doctor immediately. 

If needed, your doctor can refer you to an imaging center to perform the following breast cancer tests:

• mammograms
• breast ultrasound
• breast MRI

Whether or not you experience symptoms of breast cancer, the American Cancer Society suggests the following screening protocols for women:

• ages 40 to 44: annual screening with mammograms, if requested
• ages 45 to 54: annual mammograms
• ages 55+: annual or biennial (every other year) mammograms

(Note: Mammogram guidelines vary across different organizations, so be sure to discuss your risk factors, unique history, and personalized plan with your provider. With that said, as a general rule, women at average risk should begin to get mammograms at least every two years starting at the age of 50.)

Further, individuals who have a high risk of breast cancer should begin their screening protocols around the age of 30. High-risk individuals include those in particular who:

• have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation or a first-degree relative who does
• underwent radiation therapy from the ages of 10 to 30

However, the US Preventive Services Task Force offers different guidelines for breast cancer screenings. They share that the decision to get a mammogram in your 40s is a personal choice that comes down to risk mitigation. (They warn that false positives and unnecessary biopsies are more common in this age group than older ones, which may lead to “overdiagnosis” and nonessential treatments.)

Meanwhile, they recommend that women ages 50 to 74 with an average risk for breast cancer will benefit from biennial screenings, with the greatest success rate of avoiding death due to breast cancer amongst women in their 60s.

All things considered, it is essential to be proactive about your health, follow the guidance of your medical care team, and adhere to timely screening protocols to detect and treat—yet ideally rule out—breast cancer.

Always share your family history, health conditions, and concerns with your physician. Based on your personal risk factors, your doctor will be better able to suggest a breast cancer screening schedule that is tailored to your personal needs and unique health journey.

Content contained on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your health care provider before beginning any new fitness or dietary plan. References provided are for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsement of any websites or other sources. Should you have any health-related questions, you should contact your health care provider.

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