Take your health into your own hands: get screened

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If breast cancer is found early—when it’s small and hasn’t spread—it’s easier to treat it successfully, according to the American Cancer Society. Research shows that breast cancers found during screening exams are more likely to be smaller and less likely to have spread outside the breast. The size of a breast cancer and how far it has spread are two of the important factors in predicting an outlook for someone living with the disease. You should talk to your doctor about your family history and other risk factors to determine the breast cancer screening schedule that’s right for you. There are different recommendations depending on your age and whether you are at average or high risk for breast cancer.²

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Mammogram 101

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According to the American Cancer Society, regular mammograms—x-rays of the breast—are the most reliable way to find breast cancer early. They can find changes in the breast that may or may not be cancer. Women who have regular mammograms and are diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer are less likely to need aggressive treatments and are more likely to be cured.²

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What should you know about mammograms?³

• A mammogram is a machine with two plates that flatten your breast for 10-15 seconds to get an x-ray.
• You may need to be repositioned or have multiple images taken, especially if you have implants or larger breasts.
• The entire procedure takes around 20 minutes.
• It’s best to schedule your mammogram for a time of the month when your breasts are less likely to be swollen or tender. Avoid the week before your period.
• Avoid applying deodorants, antiperspirants, lotions, creams, or perfumes the day of your appointment.
• Be sure to share any information about your health history, breast changes, concerns or anxieties with your technician ahead of your mammogram.
• Sometimes a regular screening mammogram requires additional testing to get a closer look at an area of concern. A doctor may request additional testing like a diagnostic mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI.

You can find more information about how to prepare for a mammogram and what to expect at your screening exam, but it’s always best to work with your doctor to find the right screening tests and schedule for your unique situation.

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No one knows your body like you do

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According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, in addition to staying on top of screenings, you should get in the habit of performing a monthly self-breast exam so you’re familiar with your body if something changes. Finding something abnormal doesn’t mean it’s cancer, but you should follow up with a doctor right away if something seems out of the ordinary.

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So, what should you look for?⁴

• Hard lumps or new bumps
• Soreness or pain
• Changes in shape or size
• Changes in skin texture or thick areas
• Dimples
• Red or hot spots
• Nipple changes

The National Breast Cancer Foundation is a great resource for what to look for and how to perform a self-breast exam.

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Reaching more people with screenings

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We want to make sure women are aware of the importance of screenings and the impact they may have on your health. That’s why we partner with organizations, like Black Health Matters that help us reach more people with screenings.

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Looking for a tool that can help you easily stay on top of your breast health?

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Know Your Lemons offers an award-winning app that can provide self-exam reminders, personalized guides and gives an easy way to book a mammogram. Get more information about the app and download it here.

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References

1 ACS Survival Rates for Breast Cancer (2025, January 16). American Cancer Society. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/understanding-a-breast-cancer-diagnosis/breast-cancer-survival-rates.html

2 https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection/american-cancer-society-recommendations-for-the-early-detection-of-breast-cancer.html

3 https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection/mammograms/mammograms-what-to-know-before-you-go.html

4 https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-symptoms-and-signs/

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