Breast screening and regular health checkups can help detect breast problems early. Screening is designed to look for signs of breast cancer before symptoms appear, while clinical evaluation helps investigate changes such as lumps, pain, nipple discharge, or changes in breast shape or skin.

Mammography is a commonly used breast screening test that uses low-dose X-rays to create images of breast tissue. Depending on your age and personal risk, a healthcare professional may recommend mammography or other tests, such as ultrasound or breast MRI.

Screening recommendations are not the same for everyone. They may depend on your age, family history, genetic risk, previous breast conditions, and personal health history. If you have a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer, tell your healthcare professional because you may need an individualized screening plan.

Breast awareness is also important. Become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel so you can notice changes. A new lump, unusual nipple discharge, skin dimpling, nipple inversion, swelling, or persistent pain should be assessed, even if you recently had a screening test.

Remember that screening does not guarantee that every breast cancer will be detected, and not every breast change is cancer. The purpose of screening is to identify potential problems early and guide further evaluation when necessary.

Talk with a qualified healthcare professional about the screening schedule that is appropriate for your age, risk factors, and individual circumstances.