October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as an important reminder for women to prioritize their breast health, understand their risk factors and stay current on recommended screenings. Although a breast cancer diagnosis can be frightening, early detection and advances in treatment have improved outcomes for many patients.
According to the National Cancer Institute, approximately one in eight women in the United States will develop breast cancer during her lifetime. The disease can affect women at any age, including those in their 20s and 30s, and it may develop without noticeable symptoms. Even women who maintain healthy lifestyles, exercise regularly and attend routine medical appointments can receive an unexpected diagnosis.
The Cancer Centers of Northern Arizona Healthcare (NAH) is committed to educating the public about this disease, and how important preventive care is when it comes to taking charge of one’s own health. There are important steps that women can take to control their breast cancer risk, including knowing the signs of breast cancer, how to detect them and learn what lifestyle changes can be made to lower the risk and improve health overall.
Screening and understanding risk and prevention
Mammography remains a key tool for detecting breast cancer, sometimes identifying tumors before they can be felt or produce symptoms. Early detection increases survival rates and allows for less invasive treatment options.
The Cancer Centers of NAH recommends annual mammograms beginning at age 40, with continued screening based on an individual’s physician’s recommendations, which may vary based on personal risk, family history and medical guidance. Women with certain risk factors, such as a family history of breast cancer or dense breast tissue, may benefit from starting screening earlier or receiving additional imaging, such as an MRI.
Women should also become familiar with how their breasts normally look and feel, as recognizing unusual changes is important. These may include a new lump, swelling, skin dimpling, nipple changes or unexpected discharge. Any concerning change should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, even if a recent mammogram was normal. For women who menstruate, the week following a menstrual period may be a good time to perform an exam, when breasts are typically less tender, while post-menopausal women can choose a consistent day each month.
There is no way to eliminate the risk of breast cancer, but healthy habits can help reduce risk and improve overall health. Lifestyle choices offer additional opportunities to support well-being and potentially reduce breast cancer risk. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding tobacco can be beneficial.
Navigating a diagnosis
Hearing the words “you have breast cancer” can trigger fear, confusion and a flood of questions. One of the most common is why the disease developed, particularly among women who have taken steps to stay healthy.
The period immediately following a diagnosis can be especially stressful, when patients are still learning what the results mean and what comes next. Gathering reliable information and building a support system can make this time more manageable. NAH partners with Cancer Support Community Arizona, which offers cancer support groups.
Patients should seek guidance from their medical team, including surgeons and medical or radiation oncologists, and ask about the specific type of breast cancer, treatment options, expected outcomes and potential side effects. An oncology nurse navigator can help coordinate appointments, explain recommendations and connect patients with educational resources and support services.
NAH also encourages patients to bring a trusted friend or family member to appointments, as having an extra set of ears can make it easier to absorb information, take notes and remember questions. Patients should feel comfortable asking for clarification and taking the time needed to understand their options.
Cancer Centers of NAH is here for you
The Breast Cancer Program at the Cancer Centers of NAH is a cooperative program between the cancer patient and the team of breast cancer specialists working together toward optimal treatment outcomes and survival rates. Services provided through the Breast Cancer Program include individual treatment planning, care team coordination, and patient education on the latest research-based treatment options and modalities.
For those diagnosed with breast cancer, each person’s healthcare journey is different, though it’s often an emotional one for patients and their loved ones. It is important to take time to make an educated, well informed and rational decision about treatment. The Cancer Centers of NAH offer a variety of treatment options tailored to the specific subtype of breast cancer, and it is nearly always a treatable disease with a very high cure rate, especially when detected early.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder that taking care of breast health is a year-round commitment. With reliable information, timely care and a strong support network, women can take meaningful steps toward protecting their health and navigating breast cancer with greater confidence.
Community Health Matters column
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