If you've ever felt a twinge of guilt about skipping a monthly breast self-examination (BSE), give yourself a break. The American Cancer Society (ACS) suggests that, although you may choose to do BSEs, they needn’t be performed on a strict schedule.

Why the Change?
For many years, ACS guidelines recommended a monthly BSE for all women over age 20. In May 2003, the organization changed its recommendation, based on research studies indicating that BSEs do not play a significant role in detecting
breast cancer.*

More than 96% of women who are diagnosed with breast cancer in its early stages survive for more than five years.*

For example, in a study of nearly 100,000 Russian women between 1985 and 2003, there appeared to be no reduction in deaths for those doing regular BSEs.** The ACS has concluded that self-awareness of breast health, clinical breast exams and mammograms have a much greater impact on survival rates.

What Are the New Guidelines?
Early detection is still the most important factor in the successful treatment of breast cancer. As a first step, the ACS recommends that you practice breast health awareness. That simply means to become familiar with the way your breasts look and feel and pay attention to any changes. You may choose to continue doing BSEs, but be attuned to irregularities at any time. You may simply discover changes when bathing or changing clothes. Look for:

• Lumps or thickening under the skin. Painless, hard masses with irregular edges are more likely to be cancerous, but don't ignore soft, tender or rounded lumps.
• Irregular or dimpling skin on the breasts.
• Nipple discharge.
• Retraction, redness or scaling of the nipple.
• Generalized swelling.

Make an appointment to see your health care provider right away if you notice any of these changes.

Mammograms Save Lives
In addition to breast health awareness, the ACS recommends clinical exams (breast exams performed by a health care provider) every three years until age 40. After age 40, women should have a mammogram and clinical breast exam every year. Mammography can detect cancer in its earliest and most treatable stages, often years before a lump large enough to feel develops.

Bottom line – early detection saves lives. More than 96% of women who are diagnosed with breast cancer in its early stages survive for more than five years.* Practice breast self-awareness, have regular clinical exams and follow your doctor's recommended schedule for mammograms. You can take an active role in protecting your health.