Every October, women and men band together with pink ribbons in hand to spread awareness for breast cancer. With one in eight U.S. women developing breast cancer in her lifetime, what can women do to reduce their risk of a late-stage breast cancer diagnosis?
Other than adopting a healthier lifestyle, early detection with regular mammograms remains the most effective way for combating breast cancer. Understanding when and why to schedule regular screenings and knowing the signs and symptoms can result in better outcomes and lower breast cancer-related deaths among women.
Why are screenings important?
Due to the pandemic, fewer people are going into doctors’ offices for their annual checkups or screenings, leading to more cancer diagnoses being caught late. Early detection is key because cancer is most treatable when it is detected early and localized to one location. Screenings can detect cancerous cells before symptoms show, allowing patients to start treatment before the cancer has a chance to spread.
People who receive regular mammograms are more likely to detect cancer early, leading to less aggressive treatment and better outcomes. According to the American Cancer Society, early-stage breast cancer that hasn’t spread has a 99% five-year survival rate, versus a 29% five-year survival rate for cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.
Signs and symptoms
While a lump in the breast, under the arm, or around the collarbone is the most well-known symptom of breast cancer, other indicative symptoms include:
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Change in breast size or shape
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Thickening of breast or underarm
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Nipple retraction or nipple discharge
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Dimpled skin or skin resembling orange peel
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Tenderness or pain in breast or nipple
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Irritation, redness, scaliness, or swelling on the breast, nipple, or skin near the nipple
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Swollen lymph nodes
If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your physician immediately.
When should people get screened?
Women of every age should discuss individual risk factors with a physician to determine recommended timing and appropriate screenings. People with a family history of breast cancer, or who are known to be of higher risk, should start screening early and take further preventative measures.
Beginning at age 20, women should check their breasts monthly, note any changes, and report them to a physician immediately. Women aged 40 to 44 have the choice to start annual mammograms, and those aged 45-54 should get mammograms every year. Women aged 55 and older should have a mammogram at least every two years.
Take control of your health
Ultimately, it is up to patients to take control of their health and be proactive in taking preventative measures for early detection against breast cancer. Texas Breast Specialists encourages all women to prioritize their long-term health with regular breast cancer screenings.
This article appeared in the San Antonio Woman (October 2022 Issue).