A: There are various types of tests that can be conducted to check for breast cancer. Mammography is the most common breast cancer screening test. There are three types of mammograms. Other breast cancer screening tests include Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Thermography, tissue sampling and a breast exam. Your doctor will guide you on which diagnostic test is best for you.

A: Knowing which symptoms to look out for and conducting regular checks at home, can help detect breast cancer early. The most important factor to remain mindful of is unusual changes in your breasts. This could be an unusual painless lump in your breast, a change in the size or shape of your breast, changes in the skin on your breast and nipples (think thicker skin, swelling, or redness), dimpling in the area around your nipples, armpit pain and nipple discharge (not breast milk).

A: Conducting regular breast checks at home is recommended for women older than 20. Once you’re aware of the early signs and symptoms to look out for, use your hands to feel for lumps in your breast or changes in skin texture on your breasts and armpits. Remain mindful of pain and consult your doctor if you’re experiencing unusual breast or armpit pain that’s not linked to pre-menstrual symptoms.

A: For women 45 and older, one mammogram a year is recommended. For women 55 and older, two mammograms a year are recommended.

A: Annual mammograms are not necessary for women who are 71 and older.

A: On the day of your mammogram, it’s best to avoid applying anything to your breasts and armpits. This includes creams, powder, perfume, sunscreen and deodorant.

A: Cancerous breast lumps feel soft and tender or painless and dense. It’s important to familiarize yourself with your breasts - both in the lead up to your period and during the rest of the month - so you know when an unusual change occurs.

A: Cancerous breast lumps appear suddenly and grow over time. With regular home checks, you’ll know when an unusual lump occurs. This is when it’s important to visit a doctor for further checks. You may discover that your breast lump isn’t dangerous.

A: We recommend visiting your doctor as soon as you can. Timely detection and treatment give patients the best chance of a successful recovery.

A: Breast lumps occur due to several reasons. A new breast lump could be temporary and disappear overnight. It could be a pre-menstrual symptom. Or it could be caused by a cyst. However, if it’s a cancerous breast lump, it will grow and become more dangerous over time. It’s best to consult a doctor as soon as you can.

A: It’s common for unusual breast lumps to be cysts. These are considered “benign” because they’re not related to cancer. However, cysts require timely medical treatment too. Left untreated, they can cause an infection or blood poisoning.