Breast cancer awareness

Did you know that women in the United States have a 1 in 8 chance of developing breast cancer at some point? Did you know that there will be over 300,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer diagnosed this year in the United States? Did you know that breast cancer can also affect males with just over 2,500 cases diagnosed annually in this country? October is breast cancer awareness month, and this is a good time to review some important facts regarding breast health.

There are two types of breast cancer risk factors, those that can be modified (modifiable) and those that cannot (non-modifiable). Modifiable risk factors include things like diet, physical activity, and lifestyle. Non-modifiable risk factors include things like age, genetics, family history, race, and breast density. Understanding your personal risk for developing breast cancer is important and should be discussed with your provider.

To address modifiable risk factors, there are a few things individuals can do to lower the overall risk of breast and other types of cancer:

• Maintain a healthy weight and limit overall weight gain with aging
• Participate in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity five times per week
• Avoid or limit alcohol intake to no more than 0.5 - 1 alcoholic drink per day
   

Most current guidelines indicate that women of average-risk for developing breast cancer should begin screening with mammography at age 40. The frequency of mammography should be discussed with your provider. Women at high-risk for developing breast cancer may need to begin screening with mammography at an earlier age and may also needadditional imaging such as breast MRI or breast ultrasound.

Be sure to follow-up promptly with a medical provider if you notice any of the following:

• Lumps or pain in the breasts or underarms
• Rash or skin changes on the chest or breasts
• Nipple changes or discharge
• Swelling of the breasts
   

This October, and every month, be sure to understand your risk factors and modify when possible. Be alert to changes in your breasts and discuss overall risk and screening options with a provider. Taking these steps can lead to improved overall health, better breast health, and early detection of breast cancer.