All women are at risk for breast cancer. When detected in its earliest stages, the cure rate for breast cancer is very high. One of the best ways of detecting breast cancer early is through monthly breast self-examination.

Step One: VISUAL EXAMINATION

Standing in front of a mirror, carefully look at your breasts. Notice their size and shape. Look for any discoloration, rashes, or dimpling of the skin. Do this first with your hands at your sides, then repeat with your hands clasped behind your head. Next, place your hands on your hips and lean forward. Repeat the visual examination of your breasts in this position.

Step Two: STANDING UP

Raise your hand straight up and use the fingers of your opposite hand to press against the breast. Begin at the collarbone and work your way down over the breast tissue. You are looking for any unusual lumps - lumps that were not there before, or that feel different from the surrounding tissue. Be sure to include the underarm area. You may follow an up-and-down pattern, a circular pattern or another pattern of your choice, as long as you cover the entire breast area. When you have finished, repeat with the other breast.

Step Three: LYING DOWN

Lying flat on your back with your arm raised up alongside your head, repeat the examination as you did in the standing-up position. Be sure to thoroughly check both breasts, from the collarbone to the base of the breast, including the area under the arm.

WHAT SHOULD I FEEL?

Every woman's breasts are different. Some feel lumpy all the time; this may be normal for you. It is important to examine your breasts every month to become familiar with your own body. If you menstruate, you should examine your breasts approximately one week after your period, when your breasts are less likely to be sore or swollen with fluid.

If you do feel something unusually hard, notice that something feels different than in previous months, or notice a new nipple discharge, you should bring it to your doctor's attention.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call The Women's Health Center at Huntington Hospital at (631) 351-2564.