Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer is a disease that occurs due to abnormal growth of the breast cells. The cause of breast cancer is not yet known although it’s believed to be a hereditary disease. Initially it was a disease associated with the older women especially those who’ve reached menopause but lately there have been an increase in the number of young people suffering from the disease. The best cure against breast cancer is early detection which is facilitated by early screening.
Breast cancer screening is the process of detecting cancerous cells in the breast. It can be done in three different ways:
Mammogram is the process of conducting x-ray test on each breast. This is the most effective detection method where the breasts are compressed carefully so as to detect any changes in their tissues. These changes are not physically visible and cannot be detected by feeling the breast. It enables the cancerous cells to be detected early before they can even show on the outside. Doctors recommend that any woman above the age of 40 should have a mammogram after every one to two years.
Clinical breast exam is another screening method. This is where a doctor or nurse uses their hands to detect lumps in the breast. This method is only effective if the cancer has developed and thus has lumps that can be felt by the hands.
Self breast examination is the final screening method. This is where one uses their hand to feel for lumps. One also checks for other signs such as lumps under the arms or changes in the breast color or shape. The process involves simple steps where the woman raises her hand and uses the other hand to make circular movements from the tip outwards. Any lumps felt should be immediately reported to a doctor.