October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This month is devoted to educating everyone about breast cancer and the importance of early detection and timely, high-quality care. Other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women.
Fast facts about breast cancer
• 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime — that’s one person every 12 minutes in the U.S.
• The two greatest risk factors of breast cancer are being female and getting older.
• Most breast cancers are found in women age 50 or older, but breast cancer also affects younger women.
• Men also get breast cancer, but it is not very common. About 1 out of every 100 breast cancers diagnosed in the U.S. is found in a man.
Symptoms of breast cancer
• Any change in the size or the shape of the breast
• Pain in any area of the breast
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk (including blood)
• A new lump in the breast or underarm
If you have any of these signs, see your doctor right away. Keep in mind that some people diagnosed with breast cancer have no symptoms.
Know your risks
Knowing your family history is vital. Talk to your family and share that family health history information with your doctor to see how that history influences your risk of breast cancer.
You and your doctor can create a personalized plan to monitor for signs of the disease.
Get screened
For those at average risk, doctors recommend getting a mammogram every year starting at age 40. If there are any signs of breast cancer, finding it early and treating it early can save your life.
Make healthy lifestyle choices
Living a healthy lifestyle may lower your risk of breast cancer. Maintain a healthy weight, limit alcohol intake, and exercise regularly.
Know your normal
It is important to know what is normal for you and your body. If you notice something that does not look or feel right, notify your health-care provider. Early detection and effective treatment are critical to reducing breast cancer deaths.
Written by: Dr. Natalie Jones, MPH, DrPH Edited by: Alyssa Simms
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