Breast Cancer: Your Questions Answered

by Collin Kent, MD & Ana Ventura, MD

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed nationwide every October to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer and provide education on the most common symptoms and risk factors for the disease. By staying informed and taking proactive measures for early detection of breast cancer, we can help to minimize the effect this disease has on women in our communities.

Why is Breast Cancer Awareness Month so important?

The average woman’s risk of breast cancer is around 13 percent in the U.S. – meaning about one in eight women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in her lifetime. In fact, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among American women besides skin cancers. Breast cancer is also the second leading cause of cancer death in women, surpassed only by lung cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 264,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in the U.S., and roughly 42,000 women die as a result.

What are the risk factors?

Arguably the biggest risk factor for developing breast cancer is aging, but it’s important to remember that all women – no matter their age – can develop breast cancer. This means you may need to begin annual screenings sooner if you are at higher risk. Important risk factors to consider include a family history of breast cancer, certain genetic mutations, having dense breasts, lack of physical activity, and being overweight after menopause, among others. Talk with your provider about your risk factors and ask about the best time for you to begin regular breast health screenings.

What are the symptoms?

There are many types of breast cancer, and they can present with a variety of warning signs. Some of these signs include a new lump in the breast or underarm, change in the size or shape of the breast, breast skin irritation, pain in the breast, and discharge other than breast milk. Although there are a variety of symptoms of breast cancer, many people diagnosed with breast cancer have no signs at all. That is why it is important to stay on top of your health and take the proper steps to detect breast cancer early, including having annual mammograms.

What is a mammogram?

A mammogram is a simple, routine screening recommended for women aged 40 and older that helps detect breast cancer before symptoms arise. A mammogram screening only takes about an hour, once a year, and is the best way to detect breast cancer before lumps can be felt or other symptoms appear. Mammograms have been proven to help reduce deaths from breast cancer by detecting the disease early, when you’re more likely to have easier and more effective treatment.

What else can I do?

In addition to annual mammograms, there are a few proactive things you can do to help lower your risk for breast cancer including exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol intake. Talk to your doctor if you notice any concerning changes in your breasts.

For more information on breast cancer symptoms, risk factors and screening methods, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/ or www.breastcancer.org. If you would like to schedule your annual mammogram or talk with a provider about your breast health, we can help. Call 844.GO.SOVAH or click here.