October is Breast Cancer Awareness

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness.  So many have lost their lives, and so many are still fighting this brutal disease.  I wrote the first post to raise awareness in 2017, and last week after seeing a 32-year-old mother lose her battle, I decided to update the post to reiterate the importance of breast self-examination.  Women need to get comfortable with their bodies, check themselves regularly, and know the signs.  Without regular screenings, breast checks, or mammograms, cancer can go unnoticed.

The clinical guideline is for women 40 and over to have a yearly mammogram. But what about the women under 40?   The American College of Radiology recommended a breast cancer risk assessment by age 25.  As women, we can take ownership of our bodies.  Get comfortable with your physician, or gynecologist and ask for a breast check which is an early detection.

The goal of breast cancer screening is to find cancer early before it has a chance to grow, spread, or cause problems. 

Who should be screened for breast cancer?

Starting at the age of 40, it’s important to talk to your doctor about the benefits and drawbacks of screening and decide, with your doctor’s help, whether to get screening and when. If you’re under 40 but have a relative who got breast cancer at a young age, you should also talk to your doctor.

Women who are at high risk of breast cancer might need to begin screening at a younger age. This might include women who:

Carry genes that increase their risk of breast cancer, such as the “BRCA” genes

Have close relatives (such as a mother, sister, or daughter) who got breast cancer at a young age

What happens during a mammogram?

Before the mammogram, you will be asked to undress from the waist up and put on a hospital gown. Then your breasts will be X-rayed one at a time. Each breast is X-rayed twice. Each is X-rayed once from the top down and once from side to side so that the radiologist can get a good look at all the tissue. To make the breast tissue easier to see, a nurse or technician will flatten each breast between 2 panels.

This can be uncomfortable, but it lasts only a few seconds. If possible, avoid scheduling your mammogram just before or during your period. Breasts are extra sensitive at that time. Also, do not use underarm deodorant or powder on the day of your appointment.

Some Facts about breast cancer in the United States

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among women

FACT: When Breast cancer is detected early, the 5-year survival rate is 100%

Remember, a mammogram is a tiny thing to ask of yourself.  Today, I had mine.  It’s simply a morning or an afternoon out of our lives to have peace of mind that could save our lives as well, please don’t put it off.  Together we can beat breast cancer, act, stay informed, know your body, and report any SIGN.