October is National Breast Cancer awareness month

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Breast cancer is the second most common kind of cancer in women. About 1 in 8 women born today in the United States will get breast cancer at some point.

The good news is that most women can survive breast cancer if it’s found and treated early. A mammogram – the screening test for breast cancer – can help find breast cancer early when it’s easier to treat.

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a chance to raise awareness about the importance of detecting breast cancer early. Make a difference! Spread the word!

What Are the Symptoms?

• Any change in the size or the shape of the breast.
• Pain in any area of the breast.
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk (including blood).
• A new lump in the breast or underarm.

There are different symptoms of breast cancer, and some people have no symptoms at all.

Early detection is key!

Know your risk factors.

• Talk to both sides of your family to learn about your family health history.
• Talk to a doctor about your risk of breast cancer.

Get screened.

• Talk with a doctor about which screening tests are right for you if you are at higher risk.
• Have a mammogram every year starting at age 40 if you are at average risk.
• Have a clinical breast exam at least every 3 years starting at age 20, and every year starting at age 40.

Make healthy lifestyle choices.

• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Add exercise into your routine.
• Limit alcohol intake
• Limit menopausal hormone use

Know what is normal for you and see a Doctor if you notice ANY changes in your breasts.