Regular Exams are Key to Early Breast Cancer Detection

October is national Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This month, and throughout the year, the Breast Cancer Awareness Program, known as B-CAP, actively promotes breast cancer awareness. Pick up your educational information in the Town Hall offices of East Hampton, Haddam, East Haddam, Portland, Hebron, Marlborough, Colchester and Cromwell.

Screening for lumps

Early detection through screening can save lives. Screening is the best way to check for cancer before signs or symptoms of the disease occur. Three basic screening types are mammography, clinical breast exam and self breast exam.

Mammography is an X-ray of the breast, and it is the best method to detect breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat. Clinical breast exams are conducted by your medical care provider using their hands to feel for lumps or changes. A self exam is when you check your own breasts for lumps or changes.

The American Cancer Society encourages every woman over the age of 40 (or sooner if recommended by a physician) to get an annual mammogram. Clinical breast exams by a physician should start at age 20 and be done at least once every three years. Starting at age 40, women should have a clinical breast exam every year.

In addition to mammography and clinical exams, every woman should do a monthly self breast exam beginning at age 20 and report any unusual changes to their medical care provider.

B-CAP has a focus to reach the uninsured/underinsured, low income, those with no medical home, diverse populations and the elderly to connect them with services. B-CAP is a collaborative group of local businesses, organizations and community volunteers interested in promoting proper breast health.  If you are interested in getting involved to educate your community, or for further B-CAP information including resources about local physicians or how to receive free screenings for women without health insurance, please call Vickie Han at (860) 365-0884

Vickie Han is Cancer Control Coordinator for the Chatham Health District