Detecting breast cancer in its earliest forms, before it has a chance to spread, assures nearly a 100% survival rate to women with the disease. Because early detection means there is an excellent likelihood of successful treatment, women should faithfully use a three-pronged approach in taking charge of their own breast health.

The first is the monthly self-examination (called a BSE) of the breasts, performed 3 to 5 days after a menstrual period (starting at 20) or, if the woman is in menopause, performed on the same day each month. Secondly, an exam should be done by a doctor every three years until the age of 40 and then every year thereafter. The third is a screening mammogram program which, in general, should be started when a woman reaches 40 years of age and performed annually, according to the American Cancer Society.

Informing the woman’s doctor of a history of breast cancer in close relatives, like a mother or sister, is important also. There is a recommendation that these patients start their screening mammograms at an earlier age, several years before the cancer was detected in their relative. Breast ultrasound, MRI or possibly a PET scan may also be advised for detecting breast cancer in these higher risk women. The frequency of imaging techniques should be discussed with the woman’s doctor.

A woman’s genetic tendency for breast cancer can now be found out through genetic testing. However, it should be pointed out that, although this is available, there may be some negative sides to this testing. It is very expensive; and should the woman be found to have this genetic inclination, her ability to have health and life insurance may be affected. This method of detecting breast cancer may not be worth losing either type of insurance.

The most common gene abnormalities tested are the BRCA-1 and BRCA-2 genes which reduce abnormal cell growth. Because of the large amount of research into these areas, there are now several other genes which can be studied also: the CHEK-2 gene; ATM gene, accounting for repair of damaged DNA; and the p53 gene.

Because breast cancer is the second most frequent cancer to cause death in women (following lung cancer), knowledge of the best methods for detecting breast cancer should be of high priority to women. For the record, new methods of early detection and prevention are continually being studied.