October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: a reminder to protect yourself so you can protect others. It’s time to make sure you and your loved ones are in the know.
Know the Facts
Breast cancer is a disease that has touched many of us. One in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Of those diagnosed, 63% are diagnosed at the localized stage, meaning the cancer hasn’t spread beyond the breast. Of those diagnosed in the localized stage, the 5-year survival rate is 99%. So, what are some things we can do to protect ourselves and increase early detection?1https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-facts
Know the Exams
Self-Exam
A self-exam is an exam that can be performed at home to check for signs of breast cancer. It’s recommended that all women perform a self-exam at least once each month. Doing this will help you to become familiar with your body and its changes. John Hopkins Medical center explains, “Forty percent of diagnosed breast cancers are detected by women who feel a lump, so establishing a regular breast self-exam is very important.”2https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-self-exam
Clinical Exam
Clinical Exam
A clinical breast exam is typically performed by a physician or gynecologist at an annual appointment. Healthcare professionals completing these exams are trained in the warning signs and abnormalities that raise red flags. Their expertise could help them recognize signs that you may not notice during a self-exam.3https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/clinical-breast-exam
Mammogram
Mammogram
A mammogram is an x-ray that provides an image of the breast tissue. It is recommended that women over the age of 40 should complete a mammogram every 1-2 years. However, women under 40 with risk factors should consult their doctor about the best course of action. While self and clinical exams can help to discover palpable changes, mammograms can often show lumps before they can even be felt. 4https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/mammogram
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for women to face barriers, such as uncertainty about next steps or costs, when trying to setup a mammogram.5https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/how-to-schedule-a-mammogram/ For information on how to overcome these barriers and schedule your next appointment, visit https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/how-to-schedule-a-mammogram/.
Are you or your loved ones current on your preventative care? If not, act today!
One thought on “Breast Cancer Awareness Month: The Time to Act is Now”
You are a very intelligent individual!