Exams a Must for Detecting Breast Cancer

Do it in the shower. Do it while getting ready for bed. Just do it once a month. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, so it's a good time to get familiar with your breasts. Look for lumps, changes in size, shape or feel, and to see if there is any fluid.

All women should get to know their breasts and surrounding areas so they can be aware of changes, the American Cancer Society recommends.

"A doctor may only examine a woman once a year, if that, but no one knows your body better than yourself," said Dr. Atsuko Okabe, a breast surgeon at Franklin Square Hospital Center.

Women may be afraid to see their doctors, but regular breast exams could help save their lives.

Okabe said she follows guidelines generally set by the American Cancer Society, as it pertains to breast exams. Women between 20 and 40 should begin having clinical breast exams with their doctors at least once every three years and women should begin having an annual mammogram beginning at 40. However, that age could differ for those who have a history of breast cancer in their families.

In addition, women should conduct self-breast examinations once a month. The best time to do this, Okabe said, is right after a woman has her period because the breasts are the least lumpy and tender.

Okabe added that when a woman is conducting a self breast exam, she should first look for any change in the size and shape of the breast, along with any change in color and feel.

Several organizations are working to promote breast cancer screenings.

Across the country, the American Cancer Society works closely with health departments and health care systems to provide free mammograms. Call 1-800-227-2345 for more information.

Baltimore County government also provides free mammograms, clinical breast exams and Pap tests to lower income women, between age 40 and 64, through the Women's Cancer Protection Program. More information on this ongoing program is available on the county website.

St. Joseph Medical Center in Towson also plans to provide free breast cancer screenings on Oct. 22, between 8:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Women 40 and older who have not had a mammogram in the past year are eligible. Call 410-337-1479 to make an appointment.

Did a breast exam save your life or the life of a family member?