Prepare yourself with knowledge. Breast cancer is a disease in which cancer cells form in the tissues of the breast. No woman wants to receive this diagnosis, but hearing the words "breast cancer" doesn't always mean the end.....sometimes it can be the beginning of learning how to fight and getting the facts about this disease.Signs and Symptoms
•A change in how the breast or nipple feels
•You may experience nipple tenderness or notice a lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm area.
•A change in how the breast or nipple looks
•This could mean a change in the size or shape of the breast or a nipple that is turned slightly inward. In addition, the skin of the breast, areola or nipple may appear scaly, red or swollen or may have ridges or pitting that resembles the skin of an orange.
•Nipple discharge
Early Detection
•Beginning at age 20: Performing breast self-exams and looking for any signs of change.
•Age 20 to 39: Scheduling clinical breast exams every three years.
•By the age of 40: Having a baseline mammogram and annual clinical breast exams.
•Ages 40 to 49: Having a mammogram every one to two years depending on previous findings.
•Ages 50 and older: Having a mammogram every year.
