Breast Cancer Tumor Sizes

Comparing Different Breast Exams

Size of Tumors Found by Mammography and Breast Self-Exam
	Average-size lump detected with routine mammogram (0.43 inches / 1.1 cm)
	Average-size lump detected with first mammogram (0.59 inches / 1.5 cm)
	Average-size lump found by regularly practicing breast self-exam (0.83 inches / 2.1 cm)
	Average-size lump found accidentally (1.42 inches / 3.6 cm)

* These images were created for viewing at 800 by 600 resolution on a 16-inch monitor. They will appear larger or smaller depending upon display size and resolution. However, the relative size of the detected tumor will remain consistent.

Back to BSE Pad

Home

In terms of early detection what does this mean?

§ 80% of lumps found are benign. Source: Christa Corn, MD, Breast Cancer Specialist

§ 1 cm lump has only an 11% chance cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Source: Rosen & Groshen, 1990

§ 2 cm lump jumps to a 43% chance that cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Source: Rosen & Groshen, 1990

§ Most cancers take 8-10 years to grow to 1 cm in size, but only 1.5 years more
to grow to 3.5 cm. Source: 1997-2000 Index Medicus – ACS, NEJM, JNCI, BMJ, J Breast

Early Detection SAVES Lives – Find it sooner rather than later

Detection at 1 cm and smaller has a 90+% 10 year disease free survival rate

Source: Christa Corn, MD, Breast Cancer Specialist

Being Pro-Active and Knowing Your Body –

Don’t put your life in the hands of others. Use your own hand

This information is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to diagnose, prescribe or treat any illness