Bottom line: If you discover a non-normal lump, be concerned. But understand that it doesn’t automatically mean you have cancer.

Q. I’m really good about doing self-exams; I mean, I KNOW what my breasts feel like. And I’ve found a lump that shouldn’t be there. When I saw the doctor, he said it feels like a cyst, and not to worry about it. But I’m still worried…

A. My opinion? Get a second opinion. Or insist on further examination: a mammogram or ultrasound, for instance. I’m no doctor, but I’ve had way too many friends tell me they felt a lump, the doctor said not to worry, and months later it turned out to be cancer. This is a fine line: how much do you question your doctor? She knows what she’s talking about, right? Yes, but YOU know your own body.