Early Detection and Prevention

Monthly breast self-examination and regular mammography are the recommended methods of breast cancer early detection. The first sign of breast cancer may be a lump in the breast; a thickening, swelling, or dimpling; skin irritation or scaliness; pain; or a discharge or tenderness of the nipple. A biopsy can rule out or confirm a malignancy. A major recent study has shown that the drug tamoxifen can prevent breast cancer in women considered at high risk of developing the disease.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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