What Should I Do if I Find a Lump or Thickening in My Breast?

— -- Question: What should I do if I find a lump or thickening in my breast?

Answer: If you find a lump in your breast, the first job is to take a deep breath because most lumps in the breast ultimately do not prove to be breast cancer. When you have a lump in your breast, particularly if you're in the age group where breast cancer is more common, say after age 40, but even in younger groups, you should see your physician and your physician may recommend imaging studies of the breast. Those imaging studies would include mammography, potentially ultrasound to supplement mammography, and in a few cases other imaging studies. Based on that, your doctor will make a recommendation as to whether or not the lump is worrisome or not.

Next: If I Find A Lump, Do I See a Cancer Specialist or My Regular Doctor?

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