Breast Cancer Awareness - Know your risk
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. About 1 in 8 women develop breast cancer in the United States. While the likelihood of developing breast cancer is greater over the age of 45 and doubles if you have a first degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) who has it, knowing your risk is significant.
Currently, statistics show that people are less likely to get health screenings and are putting if off because of fear that they may contract COVID-19. Breast cancer screenings have been down by 63% during the pandemic. Imaging and cancer screenings are routinely advised and waiting can lead to invasive treatments. When breast cancer is detected early, in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%. This means, regular screenings and early intervention are very essential for survival.
According to the CDC, the following are risk factors for breast cancer:
Getting older - over the age of 45 years
Genetic mutations - inherit changes to certain genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2
Reproductive history - early start of menstrual periods (before age 12) and late menopause (after age 55)
Having dense breasts - this makes it hard to see tumors on a mammogram
Personal history of breast cancer or certain non-cancerous breast diseases - if you have had breast cancer once, you are more likely to develop it a second time
Family history of breast or ovarian cancer - having a first degree relative either female or male with breast cancer or multiple family members on father or mother’s side
Previous radiation treatment - radiation treatment on the chest or breasts before age 30 increases your chances
Women who have taken the drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) - given to some women between 1940 and 1971 to prevent miscarriage
What you can do to reduce your risk:
Perform monthly breast self-exams
Receive regular screenings
Exercise often - at least 150 minutes a week
Keep a healthy weight
Speak to your doctor about any hormones you are on like birth control
Breastfeed your children
Reduce fat intake and increase fruits, vegetables, and fiber
Limit alcohol consumption and smoking
Now that you know the risks, it’s important to detect breast cancer early. The types of screenings are:
Mammogram - this is an X-ray of the breast and the best way to detect breast cancer early
Ultrasound - a probe is placed on the skin of your breast and uses sound waves to create images of the breast tissue
Breast MRI - uses radio waves and a powerful magnet linked to a computer that creates detailed pictures of you breast
Clinical breast exam - physical exam of the breast performed by a trained healthcare professional
Breast self-exam - this can be done on yourself at home monthly. Look for breast lumps, changes in size or shape, pain, fluid from nipple and irregular tissue thickening. Speak to your doctor and schedule an appointment if you notice any changes.
Knowing your risk and receiving regular screenings are crucial for breast health. It is important to note that there are other reasons for sudden breast density or irregular thickness of breast tissue. You could have what is called a Fibroadenoma which is commonly seen in women between the age of 15-35 years. This is a noncancerous breast tumor which may require surgery to remove if it is large, complex, or juvenile. It is also worth being aware that men too can develop breast cancer. Breast cancer in men is usually detected as a hard lump underneath the nipple and areola. Risk factors include, radiation exposure, high levels of estrogen, and family history of breast cancer related to the BRCA2 gene.
Times are definitely different these days and while health screenings and self-exams may be the last thing on your mind, remember, early detection is key. Make an appointment, go to your appointment when you are feeling healthy, wear your mask and face shield, follow all clinic precautions while there, and wash your hands. Oh and remind your family and friends to get checked too!
