Question: 

Is it true that breast self exams are no longer recommended? You only need to have yearly mammograms? Thank you!

Answer by OB-GYN Karen S Carlson, MD:

Yes, most medical organizations no longer recommend routine self-breast exams, because research hasn't shown that self-breast exams improve cancer detection or outcomes. However, most organizations do recommend self-breast awareness or being familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts. If you notice a change in your breasts, tell your OB-GYN right away.

Mammograms, on the other hand, are effective for breast cancer detection. Years before physical symptoms, a mammogram may be able to detect abnormalities in the breast. Early detection means better outcomes: When breast cancer is caught early, the 5-year survival rate is 99%.

While self-breast exams are no longer necessary, mammograms are essential to women's health. The American Cancer Society recommends yearly mammograms for women 45 years and up. Other organizations suggest starting mammograms anywhere between 40 to 50 and recommend every one to two years. Women at high risk for breast cancer may need to get earlier screening with other testing, like ultrasound or MRI. 

Screening for breast cancer should be individualized, with a decision being made between the patient and her health care provider.