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Prevention
There is no well established way to prevent fibrocystic disease.
The most important issue relating to this condition is the ever-present danger of coexistent breast cancer. Women over 40 years old and relatives of breast cancer patients should have a mammogram and breast exam yearly and do their own breast examination monthly. Fibrocystic disease can make the evaluation of mammograms difficult and can also complicate palpation of the breast. For this reason, regular exams and mammograms are particularly important in women with fibrocystic disease.
Breast Self-examination
This examination is best performed within a week after a menstrual period when the breasts are less swollen and tender, and it is easier to do a thorough examination without discomfort. For the technique, please see the fact sheet on breast cancer . Routine breast examinations, even for women under 40 years old, will make you familiar with your breasts and, therefore, more likely to detect changes that should prompt a visit to a physician.