What’s the best approach to detecting breast cancer early?
Dr. Ellis: With the aid of screening mammograms, radiologists can identify approximately 80 to 85 percent of all breast abnormalities, including the six most common forms of breast cancer and a many benign (non-cancerous) tumors. To help identify the 10 to 15 percent of tumors not detected by screening, monthly self-breast exam and an annual clinical breast exam by one’s healthcare provider remain important. For women over age 40, an annual screening mammogram, an annual clinical breast exam and monthly self-breast exams are the best approach to early detection. That being said, even screening mammography may not detect these two rare forms of breast cancer – all the more reason women must be familiar with their breasts’ appearance and “feel” during self-examination.
