mammography

what: A brief, safe, low-dose breast X-ray examination
why: To detect breast cancer — often before a lump can be felt — in its earliest stage
who: All women, age 40+
when: Once a year, every year

clinical breast exam (CBE)

what: A physical breast examination by a certified health-care provider
why: To identify abnormal changes in the breast
who: All women, age 20+
when: Ages 20-39: once every 3 years Age 40+: once every year

breast self-exam (BSE)

what: An examination of your own breasts by observation and touch in three positions (standing, lying down, in the shower)
why: To detect any changes or abnormalities in your breasts
who: All women, age 20+
when: Once every month, a week after a menstrual period. After menopause, check the same day every month