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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Early Detection Matters

October marks the beginning of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to recognize and celebrate those who have survived and are living with breast cancer. In addition, it’s an opportunity to educate the public about the importance of early detection and prevention. Thanks to the American Cancer Society and dramatic improvements in cancer research, treatment and early detection, millions of women are surviving breast cancer today. Here are some tips on how you can be proactive in preventing breast cancer or catching it early.
Know Your Risk Factors
Knowing your risk factors for breast cancer can be an important part of prevention and early detection. Some risk factors such as age cannot be changed, but other lifestyle choices such as alcohol consumption can be. Women should also know their family history when considering their risk for breast cancer as there may be a genetic component that increases their chances. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network provides a comprehensive list of risk factors that all women should familiarize themselves with.  

Get Regular Mammograms
Mammograms might not be comfortable, but they are one of the most effective ways to detect breast cancer in its earliest stages when it is most treatable. According to the American College of Radiology (ACR), women aged 40-44 should get a baseline mammogram every one or two years depending on their risk factors; women aged 45-54 should get one annual mammogram; and women 55 and older should get a mammogram every two years or annually depending on their individual risk profile.  Women with higher than average risks for developing breast cancer should talk to their doctor about more frequent screenings beginning at an earlier age than recommended by ACR guidelines.
     
Be Aware of Changes In Your Breasts
In addition to regular screenings, all women should perform monthly self-exams so they can become familiar with how their breasts look and feel normally so they will quickly notice any changes that could potentially signal a problem like breast cancer. Women should also notify their doctor if they experience any unusual symptoms such as lumps or pain in either breast, nipple discharge or changes in skin texture around the nipples or elsewhere on the breasts. It’s important to remember that most lumps are harmless but it’s always better to err on the side of caution by having them checked out by your doctor just in case it does turn out to be something serious like breast cancer.  

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an important reminder for all women over 40 to make sure they keep up with regular mammograms and self-exams so potential issues can be detected as soon as possible if they do arise. Knowing your risk factors, getting regular mammograms, staying aware of changes in your breasts – these small yet important steps can help you stay healthy throughout your lifetime! Take care this October!


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