A Self-Exam That Could Save Your Life

Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Self-Exam

1. What is the purpose of the Breast Self-Exam?

To become familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts. Knowing your normal look and feel will help your recognize any changes that may signal breast cancer (such as lumps or thickening)

2. Who should perform the exam?

All women over age 20 should perform a regular breast self-exam once a month including those with breast implants.

3. How does the screening work?

It is based on a take-home reusable test pad called AWARE, manufactured by Bioamerica and distributed through Good Neighbor Pharmacy. For a Good Neighbor Pharmacy location near you, see the list below.

4. Is the self-exam difficult or painful?

No, The Aware Pad should be used as an aid for performing breast self-exam. The Aware Pad provides an easier and more comfortable exam. By reducing friction, your fingers concentrate on the perceived sense of shape. Follow the instructions for breast self-exam inside the kit.

5. When should I perform a Breast Self-Exam?

Once a month, three to five days after your menstrual period ends. If you no longer have a period, perform the exam on the same day of each month, choosing a date that is easy for you to remember.

6. What should I do if I find a lump?

See your doctor if you discover any new breast changes. Conditions that should be checked by a doctor include:

• An area that is distinctly different from any other area on either breast
• Lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm that persists through the menstrual cycle.
• A change in the size, shape or contour of the breast
• A mass or lump, which may feel as small as a pea
• A marble-like area under the skin
• A change in the feel or appearance of the skin on the breast or nipple (dimpled, puckered, scaly or inflamed)
• Bloody or clear fluid discharge from the nipples
• Redness of the skin on the breast or nipple

7. If I find a breast change during the exam, does it mean I have cancer?

Not necessarily, 80 percent of all breast lumps are not cancerous. You should contact your physician as soon as possible to discover the reason for the change.

8. If I do not find any breast change during the exam, does it mean I don't have cancer?

Not necessarily. The test should be repeated each month. Women who perform regular breast self-exam find 90 percent of all breast masses.

9. What are the chances of survival for someone with breast cancer?

Survival rates are as high as 97 percent when detected early. That's why performing this exam regularly is so important.

10. How long are the free exam pads available?

AWARE test pads will be available at Good Neighbor Pharmacies through Nov. 9.

Good Neighbor Pharmacy locations