Women should know how to detect breast cancer early

Take care of yourself by performing a monthly self-exam; having an annual breast exam at your doctor’s office; and having an annual mammogram starting at age 50 (women in their forties should discuss their risk factors with their doctors). Aging is the single most important risk factor for breast cancer.

All women need a regular schedule for Pap smears.

You should have your first screening at age 18 or when you become sexually active, whichever occurs first. If tests are negative for three consecutive years, screening every three years is adequate.