Raise Your Breast Cancer Awareness
On average, one out of every eight American women will face a breast cancer diagnosis during their lifetime. These remarkable individuals are our grandmothers, mothers, wives, sisters, daughters, aunts, friends, colleagues, and valued community members. It's time to unite and offer them our unwavering support.
In commemoration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, Bowie Health is adamant about spreading awareness and equipping you with the knowledge to safeguard yourself and your cherished ones.
1. Learn About Breast Cancer Risk Factors
As healthcare professionals and researchers, we continually expand our understanding of breast cancer risk factors. By familiarizing yourself with your individual risk factors, you can take proactive steps to reduce your likelihood of developing breast cancer by addressing modifiable factors.
Several breast cancer risk factors have been extensively established through years of rigorous research, and they encompass:
Gender (while breast cancer can affect men, it is much more common in women).
Advancing age.
Obesity.
Smoking.
Family history and genetic predisposition.
Excessive alcohol consumption (even moderate intake has been associated with a slight increase in risk).
Sedentary lifestyle.
Hormone replacement therapy.
Delayed age at first pregnancy or not having children.
Short duration of breastfeeding.
Early onset of menstruation.
History of radiation exposure to the chest or face.
Ethnicity (with disparities in risk among different racial groups).
In addition, ongoing research is shedding light on potential risk factors that may not yet have fully established links to breast cancer. These factors include:
Low levels of vitamin D.
Irregular work schedules and exposure to nighttime light.
Consumption of processed foods.
Exposure to certain chemicals found in various products such as food, cosmetics, plastics, sunscreen, and water.
Staying informed about these factors empowers individuals to make informed lifestyle choices and engage in preventive measures to minimize their breast cancer risk.
2. Schedule a Mammogram
In line with guidance from the American Cancer Society, early detection of breast cancer can significantly improve survival rates, with a 5-year survival rate of up to 99% when the cancer is localized and hasn't spread to other parts of the body. This underscores the importance of incorporating mammograms into your regular breast cancer screening routine, as they have the potential to detect cancer in its early stages.
A mammogram, essentially an X-ray of the breast tissue, is a valuable tool in this regard. It's advisable to consult your healthcare provider regarding when and whether you should schedule a mammogram. In general, women should begin considering breast cancer screening around the age of 40, with recommendations for average-risk women to undergo mammograms every 1-2 years from ages 50 to 74.
3. Practice Breast Self-awareness
Although breast exams and self-exams have not been proven to reduce the risk of breast cancer-related mortality, increasing your familiarity with the appearance and texture of your breasts can be invaluable in identifying potential warning signs and seeking appropriate evaluation.
Changes to be attentive to in your breasts include:
The presence of masses or lumps within the breast.
Generalized swelling of the breast.
Skin alterations such as dimpling or redness.
Nipple retraction, where the nipple appears to turn inward.
Nipple discharge, particularly if it includes bloody fluid.
If you observe any of these symptoms, it is crucial to promptly contact your healthcare provider. It's important to bear in mind that while breast exams are an important aspect of breast health awareness, they cannot substitute for mammograms, which are capable of detecting tumors at a much earlier stage, often before they become palpable.
4. Come to Your Doctor's Appointments Prepared.
Facing a breast cancer diagnosis, whether it's yourself or a loved one, can feel incredibly overwhelming. The flood of emotions can make it challenging to recall all the questions and concerns you may have when meeting with your healthcare provider.
To ensure you address everything on your mind, it's a good idea to jot down your questions and worries before your appointment. Here are some valuable questions to consider asking your doctor about breast cancer:
What specific type of breast cancer has been diagnosed?
Can you tell me the stage of the breast cancer?
What treatment options are available for my situation?
Would it be advisable to seek a second opinion?
If I have concerns about the financial aspects of my care, where can I find assistance?
Whenever possible, bringing along a family member or close friend to the appointment can be incredibly beneficial. They can offer emotional support and help ensure that you capture and remember the crucial information provided during the visit.
5. Get Involved
Getting involved in breast cancer awareness activities not only empowers you to take charge of your well-being but also extends a helping hand to other women while paying tribute to those you may have lost to the illness.
If you are inclined to become a part of this meaningful movement, think about exploring volunteer opportunities with a beloved charity or organization, participating in seminars and educational events, or becoming a member of a local or online support group. Your involvement can make a significant impact on the breast cancer community and provide you with a sense of purpose and connection.
Breast Cancer Awareness in Maryland
Almost all of us know someone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. If you have questions about your particular risk, contact us here at Bowie Internal Medicine today!