MODEL RELEASED. Breast self-examination. Conceptual image of a clock face and a cancer cell (white, lower right) over a woman inspecting her breast with her hand during a self-examination. The clock may represent the need for regular palpation (examination by touch) to detect the early stages of breast cancer. Cancer is an abnormal and uncontrolled division of cells, resulting in the invasion and destruction of surrounding tissues. Self-examination involves a preliminary visual examination, followed by a closer check for lumps. Early detection and treatment of breast abnormalities give a better chance of a cure.