October: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Each year in the United States, more than 200,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer and more than 40,000 women die from the disease. Other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women.  Men also get breast cancer, but it is not very common. Less than 1% of breast cancers occur in men. Most breast cancers are found in women who are 50 years old or older, but breast cancer also affects younger women. About 10% of all new cases of breast cancer in the United States are found in women younger than 45 years of age.  The mortality rate for Black women is 42 percent higher than the rate for white women. Black women are also more likely to have a more aggressive form of breast cancer and at a younger age.

Finding breast cancer early and getting cancer treatment are two of the most important strategies for preventing deaths from breast cancer. Breast cancer that’s found early, when it’s small and has not spread, is easier to treat successfully. Between 1989 – 2019,  the breast cancer death rate declined 42 percent due to improvements in early detection and treatment. Getting regular screening tests is the most reliable way to find breast cancer early.

The American Cancer Society guidelines for women at average risk for breast cancer:

• Women between 40 and 44 have the option to start screening with a mammogram every year. 
• Women 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year. 
• Women 55 and older can switch to a mammogram every other year, or they can choose to continue yearly mammograms based on risk factors and personal preference.
• Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and is expected to live at least 10 more years. 

When you have a mammogram, a technician will place your breast on a platform and a plastic plate will press it flat to get a clear picture. This part of a mammogram can be uncomfortable, but it usually only lasts 15 to 20 seconds. It takes about 20 minutes total to get a mammogram.  It can be helpful to reach out for support by asking other women who have had mammograms what to expect or asking a family member or friend to go with your when you get a mammogram.

In between mammograms it is important to let your health care provider know if you notice any of the following:

• A lump or an area that feels very firm in a breast or armpit.
• A change in the size, shape, or feel of a breast
• Fluid coming out of a nipple
• Skin on the breast that is itchy, red, flaky, or dimpled.
• Pain in any area of the breast.

Are you at higher risk for breast cancer? Tell your health care provider if breast or ovarian cancer runs in your family. Women with a personal or family history of breast cancer or certain gene mutations may be at higher risk and should talk to their health care provider to determine if additional screening for breast cancer is needed. 

If you're concerned about developing breast cancer, you might be wondering if there are steps you can take to help prevent breast cancer. Some risk factors, such as family history, can't be changed. However, there are lifestyle changes you can make to lower your risk.

• #1 Get active!! Being active increases your chances of living longer. Physical activity helps prevent several types of cancer, including breast cancer.
• See your health care provider for routine visits.
• Maintain a healthy weight. 
• Limit alcohol. Limit yourself to no more than one drink a day. The more alcohol you drink, the greater your risk of developing breast cancer.
• Breastfeed your children, if possible.
• If you are taking hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills, ask your health care provider about the risks and alternatives.

For more information on breast cancer, contact your primary care team or go to the Veterans Health Library at https://www.veteranshealthlibrary.va.gov/

For more information about the Madison VA Hospital, visit www.madison.va.gov www.facebook.com/MadisonVAHospital and subscribe to our newsletters.