With October being Breast Cancer Awareness month, it's important to take a moment and remember that every three minutes, someone is diagnosed with breast cancer.
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Symptoms
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the US with more than 265k diagnosed cases in 2020, and an additional 2.6k new cases in men. (American Cancer Fund).
The most common signs of breast cancer are a lump in the breast; abnormal thickening of the breast; or a change in the shape or color of the breast. Additional changes that may also be signs of cancer include:
- Dimpling or puckering of the skin
- Persistent swelling, redness, or warmth
- Pain in one spot that does not vary with your monthly cycle
- Pulling in of the nipple
- Nipple discharge that starts suddenly and appears only in one breast
- An itchy, sore, or scaling area on the nipple
Mammography
One of the earliest signs of breast cancer can be an abnormality that shows up on a mammogram before it can be felt. Experts suggest women:
- Obtain regular mammography screenings starting at the age of 40
- Obtain annual clinical breast exams
- Obtain a risk assessment from a physician
- Perform monthly breast self-exams
Remember: if you have any questions or concerns, consult your physician.
