Cancer Facts for Women

[Texasmujer]

The Best Defense Against Cancer
* Early detection---finding a cancer early before it has spread---gives you the best chance to do something about it. Knowing about these cancers and what you can do can save your life.

BREAST CANCER
* Breast cancer is the most common cancer that women face in their lifetime (except for skin cancer). It can occur at any age, but it is much more likely to occur after age 40 and as you get older. Some women---because of certain factors---may have a greater chance of having breast cancer than other women. But as you are getting older, you should know about breast cancer and what you can do about it.

WHAT YOU CAN DO
* The best defense is to find breast cancer as early as possible, when it is easier to treat. Finding breast cancer early is called "early detection." It is recommended to follow some guidelines:
*Women should have mammograms each year starting at age 40 and continuing for as long as they are in good health.
* A breast exam by a doctor or nurse should be part of a reggular health exam and should be done at least every three years for women in their 20s
and 30s and every year for women 40 and older.
* Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years
* Double contrast barium enema every 5 years.
* Colonoscopy every 10 years