The Facts About Early Detection

How is Breast Cancer Detected Early?

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer affecting women worldwide, except skin cancer⁴¹, and 1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer in her lifetime. Detecting the disease early can prevent breast cancer deaths. In fact, the 5-year survival rate for cancers that are found early and have not spread outside of the breast is 99%⁴².

Early detection provides the best chance for survival and provides the opportunity for less costly and invasive treatment options.

Routine Screenings

Routine screenings reduce the mortality rate of breast cancer by 40%³² and your annual 3D™ Mammogram is one of the best ways to detect breast cancer early. The Hologic Genius^® 3D Mammography™ exam is crucial for early detection because the exam detects 20-65% more invasive cancers when compared to 2D mammography alone¹. Scheduling your annual 3D™ mammogram provides peace of mind knowing that if cancers are found, they are typically found in their earliest stages.

Discuss your risk factors and family history with your doctor to determine when you should start receiving your annual 3D™ mammogram.

Self-Exams

Beyond an annual 3D™ mammogram, early detection methods can also include a monthly self-exam. Through a self-exam you can discover what is normal for your breast and discover any physical changes including:

• Lumps
• Nipple inversion
• Skin irritation
• Dimpling of the skin
• Breast discomfort

Contact your doctor if you notice any changes or concerns.

Breast Exams

A clinical breast exam performed by a health care professional is another tool for early detection. They will check for lumps or other physical changes. By combining breast exams with an annual 3D™ mammogram, you can increase your chances of finding breast cancer early.

Maintaining your routine screening and breast exams can give you peace of mind, as you know you are doing your best to ensure the early detection of breast cancer. To decide when you should begin receiving your yearly 3D™ mammogram, talk to your health care professional and develop a screening plan that works for you.