Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Facts, Tips, and Resources for You

Breast Cancer: Key Facts You Need to Know

Understanding the facts about breast cancer is the first step toward early detection and prevention. Knowledge is a powerful tool in the fight against breast cancer, and these key facts will help you better understand this disease:

Statistics

Breast cancer commonly affects women worldwide.

Women in the U.S. develop invasive breast cancer about one in eight times (13%) in their lifetime.

About one in 726 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.

Risk Factors

Age: The risk increases as we get older, with most breast cancers diagnosed after age 50.

Family history: A close relative with breast cancer can double your risk.

Genetic mutations: Inherited changes in specific genes, like BRCA1 and BRCA2, significantly increase the risk.

Personal health history: Previous breast cancer, certain benign breast conditions, or dense breast tissue can increase the risk.

Lifestyle factors: Some lifestyle-related risk factors include lack of physical activity, being overweight after menopause, and alcohol consumption.

Symptoms to Look Out For

While regular screenings are essential for early detection, being aware of changes in your breasts is just as important. Schedule a screening if you find any of the following:

• A new lump or discomfort in the breast or underarm
• Thickening or swelling in any part of the breast
• Skin irritation or dimpling of breast skin
• Flaky or red skin around the nipple area or on the breasts
• Pulling in or soreness in the nipple area
• Unusual nipple discharge other than breast milk
• Any noticeable changes in the size or form of the breast

Finding any of these doesn't automatically mean you have breast cancer, but it does mean it's time for a chat with your doctor.

Breast Cancer Types

As a group of diseases, the main types of breast cancer include:

• Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC). This is the most common type. It usually starts in the milk ducts and spreads to surrounding tissues.
• Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC): Occurs in the lobules (milk-producing glands) and then spreads to other breast tissues.
• Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): A non-invasive breast cancer characterized by the presence of abnormal cells within the milk ducts of the breast.
• Triple-negative breast cancer: A less common but more aggressive type that doesn't have estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, or HER2 proteins.

Essential Breast Cancer Screening Tips

Early detection is our best weapon in the fight against breast cancer, necessitating regular screenings. Follow these tips to promote breast health:

Self-Exams: Your First Line of Defense

Regular self-exams can help you notice any unusual changes in your breasts. Check yourself once a month, ideally a few days after your menstrual period ends.

1. Visual Inspection:
2. Use a mirror and place your arms at your sides.
3. Check for noticeable changes in the size, shape, or color of your breasts.
4. Raise your arms and look for the same changes.
5. Physical Examination:
6. Lie down and use your right hand to feel your left breast for lumps, thickening, or hardened knots. Then, do the same on the right side.
7. Make small circular motions from your collarbone to the top of your abdomen and from your armpits to your cleavage.

Mammograms: Nipping It in the Bud

While self-exams are important, they shouldn't replace professional screenings:

• Clinical Breast Exams: Your healthcare provider will examine your breasts for abnormalities.
• Mammograms: This screening procedure uses X-rays to detect tumors before they're large enough to feel.
• Women at the age of 40 should start having annual mammograms.
• If you have a family history or other high-risk factors, the doctor might recommend you start early.

To ensure the most accurate results:

• Schedule your mammogram screening for one to two weeks after your period, when your breasts are less likely to be tender.
• Don't wear deodorant, perfume, or powder on the day of your exam, as these can interfere with the imaging.

Resources for Breast Cancer Awareness

Many organizations can assist you if you need information, support, or services.

1. American Cancer Society: Offers a wealth of information on breast cancer, including treatment options and support services.
2. Susan G. Komen Foundation: They provide educational materials and help connect individuals with screening services.
3. National Breast Cancer Foundation: Provides free mammograms and educational resources to women in need.
4. Breastcancer.org: Offers expert-reviewed information about breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, as well as emotional support.
5. The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF): Focuses on funding the most promising research to end breast cancer.
6. Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC): Provides trusted information, webinars, helplines, and support for women affected by breast cancer.
7. Young Survival Coalition: Supports young adults diagnosed with breast cancer, providing peer support, educational resources, and advocacy.
8. The Pink Fund: Financially aids breast cancer patients actively undergoing treatment.

How to Reduce Your Risk

"Is there anything I can do to lower my risk of developing breast cancer?"

 The good news is that there are several lifestyle choices and actions that may help reduce your risk.

Embrace a Healthy Lifestyle

 The way you live can play a significant role in preventing breast cancer.

• Maintain a healthy and balanced diet.
• Exercise for at least 150 minutes per week, combining both strength and endurance exercises.
• Limit alcohol consumption to no more than a drink per day.

Understand Your Genetic Risks

If you have a family history of breast cancer, consider these steps:

• Discuss your family history with your healthcare provider.
• Ask about genetic counseling and testing if appropriate.
• If you have a high-risk genetic mutation, talk to your doctor about additional screening or preventive measures.

Next Steps: What You Can Do This Month

Breast Cancer Awareness Month isn't just about learning and taking action. Here are some meaningful ways to make a difference this October, whether for yourself, your loved ones, or your community.

Spread Awareness:

• Share this blog post or other educational materials that help spread awareness of breast cancer month.
• Have conversations with friends and family about the importance of breast cancer screening.

Support Those Affected:

• Reach out to friends or family members who have been affected by breast cancer.
• Consider joining a support group if you're a survivor or caregiver.

Advocate:

• Share your personal story if you've been affected by breast cancer.
• Support initiatives that promote access to breast cancer screening and treatment for underserved communities.

Every action, no matter how small, contributes to the larger goal of beating breast cancer.

Prevent, Support, and Stay Healthy with Rural Health Network

You might be wondering, “Where do I go from here?” 

That's where Rural Health Network comes in.

From women's health services to comprehensive breast health tips, we provide quality care to everyone—no exceptions. We believe every person deserves access to essential health services, and that's why our doors are open for you and anyone in our rural community.



Get Comprehensive, Holistic Health Assessments involving breast cancer risk factors.

Access state-of-the-art mammogram screenings and learn from expert interpretation of your results.

Tailor a wellness plan with a healthcare professional that aims to reduce your breast cancer risk.

Let's work together to create a healthier community, one person at a time. Here's to your health, awareness, and a future where breast cancer is a challenge we can confidently overcome.

Awareness Begins with You