Clinical breast examinations can detect a lump in your breast and other changes that might require more testing. Breast exams are one of the most important early breast cancer screenings.
Breast exams improve the chances of finding breast cancer early. Your clinician can tell whether your breasts look and feel healthy. During a breast exam, your clinician will feel for lumps and other problems and can recommend more tests if there’s anything unusual.
For people with breasts, a breast exam is recommended every 1 to 3 years in your 20s and 30s, then once a year after turning 40. These are usually done as part of annual exams and wellness visits.