A new report from an organization that evaluates medical research says there's no evidence that breast self-exams reduce breast cancer deaths.

It even suggests thay may do more harm than good...but some disagree.

Dr. Sally Mattingly says it's not news that breast self-exams may not change whether a woman who gets breast cancer lives or dies.

"First of all you need to be aware of your breasts and know if somethings changing and you can never know that unless you do your self-exams," said Dr. Mattingly.

But she says detecting a lump that may be malignant and getting yourself professionally screened will get you treatment.

"So maybe I can't tell you that if you found it yourself you'd have a better chance of living than dying of breast cancer but certainly you would get into the system and have things done for you."

The study also suggests only those with a family history should most definitely have monthly self-exams. But Dr. Mattingly says research shows only 10 to 15 percent of women who get breast cancer have a family history of the disease.

"The top two risk factors of getting breast cancer is being a woman and getting older, so it's very important for every woman to get out and get their screenings," said Erin Zastrow of the American Cancer Society.

Zastrow says before mammograms existed, self-exams were critical...but are still beneficial.

Having yearly mammograms and clinical exams are crucial, and so is being aware of changes in your breasts.

"Just know what it felt like the day you leave after having an exam with me or someone else, that's what is your baseline," said Dr. Mattingly.

She recommends paying attention to any changes you may experience for a few months after a clinical screening...even if you don't know what you're looking for.

She says if you find something unusual, contact a medical professional who can decide what to do next.

The Women's Breast Health Center recommends women begin practicing self and clinical breast exams in their late teens...and yearly mammograms starting at 40.