The first step is to know your family health history. First-degree relatives (mother, father, brothers, sisters and children) with breast cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer (not cervical), colon and prostate cancer increase your personal risk.

However, any blood relative with these cancers, particularly before the age of 50, can cause an increase risk for you. Even though breast cancer in men is rare, it does exist.

The next step is to learn and perform self breast exams. The earlier you begin doing monthly exams, the more likely you are to find warning signs of breast cancer. You will know what is normal for you.

Changes to look for are new and persistent lumps, sores that do not heal, dimpling of the skin, and changes that make your breasts look like they do not belong to the same person.

The third step is to get breast exams yearly by your health care provider. Since health professionals know what to look for, they can find the worrisome problems.

After the age of 40, mammograms are recommended every two years.

After the age of 50, mammograms are recommended every year.

If there is a family history of the cancers mentioned above, an earlier mammogram may be indicated.

Of course, if you have problems, your health care provider may order a screening mammogram or a diagnostic mammogram. Screening mammograms are the most common. It is rare to have breast cancer at a young age, but cancer has been found in 20-year-olds.

If breast cancer is detected, treatment can be as simple as a lumpectomy (removal of the lump).

Depending on the length of time a cancer has been growing, treatment will vary.

Remember, it is NOT knowing that causes death from breast cancer. Do not avoid your health care provider because of fear.

Breast cancer is a highly curable disease, especially if discovered early.

If you have questions about breast cancer, ask your doctor.

The Internet is a good source if you use the correct Web site.

WebMD and Susan B. Komen Web sites give accurate information. Also, you may call toll free: (877) GO KOMEN, (877) 465-6636.

Diana DeFelice, D.O., is a family medicine physician with Muskogee Immediate Care, A service of Muskogee Regional Medical Center.