One in eight American women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime.  There are many factors which place women at high risk for developing breast cancer. These include a family history of breast cancer, prior breast biopsies with precancerous cells, early onset of menstruation, late menopause and delaying childbearing until later in life. Several factors which decrease risk for breast cancer include: breastfeeding, maintaining a normal weight, eating a healthy diet, taking multivitamins and antioxidants, routinely exercising and not smoking.

The American Cancer Society recommends that all women perform a monthly breast self examination starting at age 20. Women should promptly report any changes in their breasts to their physician. Between ages 20 and 39, women should be examined by their physician for breasts lumps every 3 years. From age 40 onwards, all women should undergo screening mammography and breast examination by a physician every year.

Digital mammography is now state of the art for evaluating the breast. Digital mammography provides your physician a very sharp and detailed picture of your breast. This is especially beneficial in young women, women with dense breasts, women at high risk for breast cancer and women with a personal history of breast cancer. Breast ultrasound is often performed to assist in interpreting digital mammography.

Breast MRI has recently become available to evaluate breast conditions. Breast MRI is recommended in women at high risk for breast cancer, women with dense breasts, women with breast implants and in women with newly diagnosed breast cancer.

Women at high risk for breast cancer may need to start mammography at age 30 or even younger.  Some women with strong family histories should seek genetic counseling and a blood test for the BRCA breast cancer gene.  This will help guide them in decisions affecting not only them, but other family members, such as sisters and daughters.