Here are a few things to consider when evaluating your risk of developing breast cancer — and what...
Breast cancer impacts hundreds of thousands of lives every year, including those diagnosed, friends, family, and caregivers. However, there is promising news - breast cancer survival rates have increased significantly in the past 30 years, mainly due to awareness and education surrounding prevention and screening.
Here are 10 facts that may be overlooked when it comes to breast cancer - and how awareness can empower you to take charge of your health - starting today.
1. Screening before age 40 may be necessary.
While most women are recommended to start breast cancer screening at age 40, if you have a high risk of breast cancer, you may be recommended to start earlier. Your doctor can help you determine your risk and when you should start.
2. Breast lumps are not the only sign of breast cancer.
Other signs can be new breast asymmetry, breast swelling, skin changes, discoloration, breast warmth or itching, breast pain, and underarm/collarbone swelling. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should reach out to your doctor as soon as possible.
3. Early-stage breast cancer can be asymptomatic.
Especially in early-stage breast cancer, you may not be able to feel a lump or experience any breast changes. That's why mammograms are so critical for early detection.
4. The average American woman has a 12% chance of getting breast cancer.
It is estimated that almost 300,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in 2023.
5. Men can get breast cancer, too.
Although less common, men can get breast cancer. A man's lifetime risk of breast cancer is about 1 in 1,000.
6. An MRI or ultrasound may be needed.
For some women with dense breast tissue, adding an ultrasound to screening can increase the detection of small breast cancers. For those with a high risk of breast cancer, adding an MRI to screening may be recommended by your doctor.
7. You can still get breast cancer without a family history.
While women with a first-degree relative of breast cancer are almost twice as likely to develop breast cancer themselves, approximately 85% of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history.
8. BRCA is not the only mutation that can lead to increased breast cancer risk.
While mutations in BRCA 1/2 are the most common inherited mutations linked to breast cancer, there are other mutations that may also increase your risk. If you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, your doctor or a genetic counselor can discuss whether genetic testing may be appropriate for you. Some other cancers (including prostate cancer, melanoma and pancreatic cancer) may also indicate a hereditary breast cancer risk, so it is important to provide a thorough family history.
9. As the number of menstrual cycles increases, so does your risk.
A woman's risk of breast cancer increases with the number of menstrual cycles she has in her lifetime. Early first periods, late menopause, and not having pregnancy can all increase your risk relative to others.
10. Lifestyle habits may increase your chances.
These include excessive alcohol use and a sedentary lifestyle. Overweight or obesity are also medical conditions that raise your risk of breast cancer.
If you have questions about your risk of breast cancer or any other health concern, please reach out through your Summus Dashboard.
