The first step to catching breast cancer early is for every woman to stay informed regarding the signs and symptoms of the disease. The American Cancer Society recommends that women in their 20s and 30s schedule a clinical breast exam every three years. Women, who are over 40 years old, should be examined by their doctor annually.



Women are also encouraged to perform routine self-breast exams. For
this reason, it’s important to know what to watch out for during a
self-exam. Women, who choose to perform self-exams, should consult
with their healthcare provider to learn the specific technique. They
should be able to identify the following changes in their breasts:


Redness in the nipple area
Scaliness in the nipple or breast area
Lumps
Skin irritation
Discharge


How to Perform a Self-Breast Examination
Breast cancer growths are more likely to be found in some areas of
the breast than others. About half of tumors are found in the outer
and upper region of the breast. The following Breast Self Exam
method is recommended by the American Cancer Society:


1. Lie on your back with your right arm behind your head.


2. Using the three middle fingers of your left hand, feel for
lumps in your right breast by performing “dime-sized”
circular motions


3. Use light pressure, at first, then medium pressure (for
potential deeper cysts), and finally, use firm pressure to feel
the areas closes to the ribs.


4. Move in a vertical pattern throughout the entire breast.


5. Repeat the same procedure on your left breast by using the
fingers of your right hand.


6. Look for any changes in the shape or color of the breast
skin and nipple.


7. Sit or stand to examine your underarms in front of a
mirror. Raise your arm straight up, and feel for potential
abnormalities in the underarm area.


Breast Self Exam – Source: American Accreditation Healthcare
Commission