October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to education, support, and encouraging people to get their annual screening. This campaign serves as a powerful reminder of the impact cancer has on millions of lives and highlights the importance of early detection, ongoing research, and the strength in community support and resources.
How Many People Are Affected Annually By Breast Cancer
According to the American Cancer Society, “breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, except for skin cancers. It accounts for about 30% (or 1 in 3) of all new female cancers each year.” While breast cancer predominantly affects women, it's not exclusive to them; men can also develop breast cancer, though it is far less common. Awareness campaigns are important for men too, so they can recognize the signs and symptoms.
Early Detection Is The Key To Fighting Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer Awareness Month highlights the life-saving potential of early detection. When breast cancer is found early while it is still localized (contained within the breast), the treatment options are more effective, less invasive, and the prognosis is significantly better. Diagnosis of localized breast cancer has a 5-year relative survival rate of 99% because it hasn’t spread and is easier to treat. If not caught early the most common areas breast cancer spreads to are the bones, lungs, liver, or brain. Early detection is so crucial so it can be caught early and treated before it spreads.
Proactive Measures For Spotting Breast Cancer Early
Breast Cancer Awareness Month aims to educate the public about the tools available to them to take steps to proactively check for breast cancer.
Self Checks
Understanding what’s normal for your breasts is very important. This means paying attention to how your breasts normally look and feel. If you notice any changes such as a new lump, skin dimpling, nipple retraction, or unusual coloring, it’s important to see a healthcare provider right away.
Breast Examination
A physical examination by a healthcare professional can help detect abnormalities that might be missed by self checks. These are often part of a regular wellness check-up, but if not, it’s important to ask for this to be done.
Mammograms
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast, and is the most effective screening tool for detecting breast cancer. It can find lumps or tumors that are too small to be felt. Guidelines for when to start and how often to get mammograms can vary based on age and risk factors, so it's essential to discuss a personal screening plan with your doctor.
Breast Ultrasound
A breast ultrasound usually is recommended if a mammogram detects something abnormal and the healthcare provider wants it to be checked further. This ultrasound will take pictures inside the breast so your provider can focus on the areas more closely and clearly. Getting an ultrasound of your breast is often recommended for women with dense breast tissue, because mammograms may be less effective since ultrasounds can get pictures through the breast tissue.
Breast Biopsy
A breast biopsy may be recommended after an ultrasound when the imaging shows an area that’s abnormal or looks like it could be cancerous. An ultrasound can detect lumps, cysts, or unusual tissue, but it can’t definitively determine if a mass is cancerous. A sample of your tissue will be taken to see if cancer cells are present. This will give a definitive diagnosis whether it’s cancer or not.
Breast Cancer Support
A breast cancer diagnosis can be an isolating, scary, and overwhelming experience. The emotional, physical, and financial toll can be a lot to handle, not just for the person diagnosed, but for their families and friends as well. Community support is also a lifeline for those diagnosed with breast cancer. While support from family and friends is so important, talking with other people who understand what you’re going through can make a world of difference.
Breast cancer resources:
Disclaimer: As always, our content is based on personal experience and is not medical advice. Please consult your doctor and health team for medical advice.