Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to remember that it is the second-most common cancer affecting American women behind skin cancer. Each year in the United States, about 270,000 women develop breast cancer with approximately 42,000 women dying from the disease.

Most breast cancers are found in women who are 50 years old or older, but breast cancer also affects younger women. 1 in every 10 new cases of breast cancer are found in women under age 45. Although rare, men can also develop breast cancer with about 1 out of every 100 breast cancers diagnosed in the United States being a male.

KNOW THE SYMPTOMS

The CDC notes that some people with breast cancer have no symptoms at all, but if you have any signs that worry you, it is important to alert your doctor right away. Some symptoms include:

• Changes in the size/shape of the breast.

• Changes in breast feeling or appearance, including dimpling, irritation, redness, flaky skin, thickening, or swelling.

• Breast pain or a new lump in the breast or underarm.

• Discharge other than breast milk, including blood.

  
  

LOWER THE RISK

Making intentional, healthy lifestyle choices can play a powerful role in reducing your risk of breast cancer. Here are some practical steps to consider:

• Maintain a healthy weight.

• Stay active (brisk walking, yoga, swimming, dancing, etc.).

• Limit your intake of alcoholic beverages.

• Breastfeed if you can.

Although you can't change some factors, such as getting older or your family history, adjusting your daily routine and making healthy lifestyle choices can help lower your risk of breast cancer. If you are taking hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills, ask your doctor about the risks.

WHAT ARE MAMMOGRAMS?

A mammogram is an x-ray picture of the breast, which doctors use to look for early signs of breast cancer. During the mammogram, each breast is pressed flat between two plastic plates, both from the top/bottom and sides, to take x-ray images. Tips from the CDC include:

• Women ages 40 to 74 at average risk for breast cancer should get a mammogram every 2 years.

• Mammograms can be painful. Not having one the week before your period or during your period is a good idea, as your breasts may be tender or swollen.

• Don't wear deodorant, perfume, or powder on the day of your mammogram, as these products can show up as white spots on the x-ray.

• Wearing a skirt or pants instead of a dress on the day of your mammogram may help, as you will need to undress from your waist up.

The CDC notes that regular mammograms can find breast cancer early, sometimes up to 3 years before it can be felt.

TAKE ACTION, RAISE AWARENESS

IHCRC offers breast health and mammography as part of its Medical services for active patients. You can also talk to your provider about potential changes to diet and exercise to lower your breast cancer risk through IHCRC's Health and Wellness program.

IHCRC will share information through clinic signage and social media during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. When you see messages, pink ribbons, or events in October, please consider helping to raise awareness and encourage people to take action by:

• Sharing information about breast cancer on social media.

• Participating in local walks/runs to raise funds for breast cancer research.

• Wearing pink to show solidarity with those impacted by the disease.

SOURCES AND ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Breast Cancer Awareness | Video - What Does it Mean to Have Dense Breasts? | Mammograms | Screening for Breast Cancer | Young Breast Cancer Survivors Program | Additional CDC Breast Cancer Resources