Aspirus Shares Why Breast Self-Exams Are Essential to Early Cancer Detection
10/15/2025
Hannah Grawey, Aspirus Family Medicine Nurse Practictioner
About one in eight women in the United States will develop breast cancer in her lifetime, according to the American Cancer Society. Early detection remains one of the most effective ways to improve survival, and that often starts with women knowing their own bodies, says Hannah Grawey, APNP, a family medicine nurse practitioner with Aspirus Health.
When asked about key ways to detect breast cancer early, Grawey emphasized, “Self-breast exam, self-breast exam, self-breast exam.” She explains, “A lot of women catch their breast cancer before a mammogram does. Especially for women in their 30s who are not yet at the age threshold for regular mammograms, self-breast exam is going to be your best friend.”
Grawey educates her patients during annual well-woman visits on the importance of performing regular self-exams and staying current with recommended screenings. These appointments also offer an opportunity to discuss changes, review risk factors, and schedule preventive care such as mammograms.
“You know your body best, and you know what is going to change in your body. That is one of the most important ways to catch something early,” Grawey said.
In addition to personal awareness and routine provider visits, Grawey encourages women to take advantage of community programs that help cover mammogram costs or provide transportation to screening appointments. Aspirus care teams can connect patients to these resources and guide them through the screening process.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as a powerful reminder that education, early detection, and access to care save lives.
For more information, visit aspirus.org/breast.
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