Some women are more at risk for breast cancer than others, due to genetics, lifestyle, age, and other factors. All women should know how to detect breast cancer.

Early detection of breast cancer means that a woman has more treatment options and a better chance of complete recovery. Women should take an active part in early detection by discussing the disease with their doctor and watching for symptoms and creating an appropriate schedule of checkups, mammograms and breast self-examinations.

• Genetic and Risk Factors of Getting Breast Cancer
• Steps to Reduce the Risk of Breast Cancer
• Genetic Testing
• How to Do a Breast Self-Exam
• Recommended Guidelines for Mammograms
• Symptoms of Concern
• Diagnostic Expertise and Innovations

Women with increased risk factors should have a baseline mammogram at 35. After the age of 40, these women should have an annual mammogram.

Women without increased risk factors should have a baseline mammogram by age 39 and then have a mammogram every year.

The following steps may help reduce the risk of breast cancer:

• Perform breast self-examination regularly
• Physical breast exam by physician
• Follow recommendation guidelines for mammograms
• Exercise regularly
• The best time for self-examination is 10 days after the onset of your menstrual cycle.