From Popsugar · Korin Miller · · 1m
Wait, Are We Still Doing Self-Breast Exams?
Self-breast exams may cause false positives but experts say they help detect cancer in younger women.
In brief
Self-breast exams may cause false positives but experts say they help detect cancer in younger women. Self-breast exams can detect early breast cancer in women under 40 but risk false positives. Originally reported by Popsugar.
Self-Breast Exams
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Self-breast exams are no longer taught in doctor's offices but are still recommended by some experts.
American Cancer Society Stance
The American Cancer Society says research has not shown self-breast exams benefit breast cancer detection.
False Positives Risk
Self-breast exams can cause false positives, leading to unnecessary tests and stress.
Younger Women's Risk
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Ten percent of breast cancers occur in women under 40, making self-exams potentially helpful for early detection.
Monthly Self-Exams
Doctors recommend monthly self-exams, ideally one week after menstruation for best results.
Mammograms Still Key
Women should still get annual mammograms starting at age 40, not replacing self-exams.
How to Do Self-Exams
Check for skin changes, redness, rashes, nipple inversion, and discharge during self-exams.
The takeaway
Self-breast exams can detect early breast cancer in women under 40 but risk false positives.
