Breast Health

Breast health at every age 

Your breast health is unique to you. It starts with understanding what’s normal for your body and knowing when to talk with your doctor about any changes. At Banner Health, our women’s health experts are here to help you stay proactive, confident and informed about your breast health through every stage of life. 

Whether you’re scheduling a routine mammogram, managing a benign condition or have questions about changes you’ve noticed, our team is here to guide you. 

Preventive breast care and self-awareness 

One of the best ways to protect your breast health is by knowing what’s typical for you. Being familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel helps you notice changes early. 

Contact your provider if you experience: 

• A new lump or area that feels different from surrounding tissue 
• Unusual nipple discharge or fluid 
• Swelling or tenderness that doesn’t go away 
• Skin changes such as redness, dimpling or flaking 
• Nipple changes like pain, inversion or scaling 

Most breast changes are not cancerous, but it’s always important to get checked right away. 

Routine screenings and early detection 

Regular screenings are key to finding breast problems early, when they’re easiest to treat. Banner Health offers comprehensive breast imaging and diagnostic services . 

Mammogram 

A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray that helps detect breast changes before symptoms appear. Most women should start annual mammograms at age 40, but your provider may recommend starting earlier based on your health history or risk factors. 

Clinical breast exam (CBE) 

Your provider checks your breasts and underarms for lumps or abnormalities. Women ages 18–39 should have a CBE every 1–3 years, and yearly exams after age 40. 

Advanced imaging 

For women with dense breast tissue or elevated risk, breast ultrasound or MRI may be recommended for clearer imaging. 

If you need to schedule a mammogram, find a Banner Health breast center near you. 

Non-cancerous breast conditions 

Many breast changes are benign (non-cancerous) and can often be treated or managed easily. Common breast conditions include: 

• Breast cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that can feel tender or lumpy 
• Fibroadenomas: Smooth, non-cancerous lumps common in younger women 
• Mastitis: Breast tissue inflammation, often related to breastfeeding 
• Breast abscesses: Painful pockets of infection that may need drainage 
• Breast pain (mastalgia): Hormone-related or cyclical pain 
• Ductal hyperplasia (without atypia): Overgrowth of cells in breast ducts that is not cancerous but may require monitoring 

If you notice changes or discomfort, your provider can help determine whether it’s a benign condition or needs further testing. 

Understanding your breast cancer risk 

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow abnormally and form a tumor. Most breast cancers are detected through mammograms or after a woman notices a lump or other change. 

While most women who develop breast cancer do not have a family history, your risk may be higher if you: 

• Have a close relative with breast or ovarian cancer 
• Carry a BRCA1, BRCA2 or other genetic mutation 
• Have dense breast tissue 
• Are older than 50 
• Lead a sedentary lifestyle or drink alcohol regularly 

If you’re concerned about your risk, talk with your provider. They can recommend screenings or refer you for genetic counseling. 

Learn more about breast cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center. 

Breast health through the decades 

Your breast health needs evolve throughout life. 

• In your 20s and 30s: Focus on self-awareness and schedule clinical exams every 1–3 years. 
• In your 40s: Begin yearly mammograms and discuss risk factors with your provider. 
• In your 50s and beyond: Continue regular screenings and report any new breast changes, even after menopause. 

Your provider can help tailor your screening schedule to your personal and family health history. 

Why choose Banner Health for breast care 

At Banner Health, you’ll find a compassionate team dedicated to helping women protect and understand their breast health. We offer: 

• 3D mammography and advanced diagnostic imaging 
• Same-day or next-day follow-ups for abnormal results 
• Genetic counseling and high-risk screening programs 
• A seamless connection to Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center for specialized breast cancer care 
• Education, emotional support and wellness resources for every step of your journey 

No matter your age or health history, you can count on Banner Health to be your partner in lifelong breast health. 

Frequently asked questions 

When should I start getting mammograms? 

Most women should begin annual mammograms at age 40. Your provider may recommend earlier or additional screening if you have a higher risk. 

Are all breast lumps cancerous? 

No. Many lumps are non-cancerous conditions like cysts or fibroadenomas. Your provider can perform imaging or a biopsy to determine the cause. 

What if I have dense breast tissue? 

Dense breast tissue can make it harder to detect abnormalities on a mammogram. Your provider may recommend supplemental imaging such as an ultrasound or MRI. 

How can I lower my breast cancer risk? 

Stay active, maintain a healthy weight, limit alcohol, avoid smoking and get regular screenings. Talk with your provider if you have a family history of breast cancer. 

Schedule your mammogram or learn more about Banner’s breast health services by finding a breast center near you.