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Content is sponsored and provided by Henry Ford Health System
Henry Ford Expert:
Jessica Bensenhaver, M.D.
Director of the Breast Cancer Program
Henry Ford Institute Against Cancer
October is Rose Month, a time to highlight the importance of breast cancer prevention and early diagnosis for women of all ages, as well as learning about the vast treatment options available to patients.
Facts about breast cancer
Breast cancer will be diagnosed in about one in eight women during her lifetime.
In 2018, approximately 266,120 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in the United States, as well as 63,960 new cases of non-invasive breast cancer (in situ).
Most women who develop breast cancer will not have a family history of breast cancer.
Breast cancer can be caused by inherited genetic mutations, including a mutation in BRCA1 or BRCA2, which accounts for about 5% to 10% of all breast cancers.
Other risk factors for breast cancer: family history of the disease, early menstruation, early age or first birthday, and taking hormones such as estrogen and progesterone for menopausal symptoms.
The risks of breast cancer that you can control
Obesity: Among menopausal women, obese people have an increased risk of developing breast cancer by 20-40%.
Alcohol Consumption: Consuming an alcoholic beverage daily increases the risk of breast cancer by at least 5%. Two to three drinks a day increase your risk by 20%.
Exercise: Regular exercise reduces the risk of breast cancer. Adults must engage weekly in at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of intense activity.
Breast-feeding: Studies have shown that breastfeeding women have a lower risk of breast cancer.
Hormonal use after menopause: There is a link between hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and an increased risk of breast cancer.
Family history and BRCA genes
It is estimated that 5 to 10% of breast cancer cases are hereditary, that is, they occur in the family.
Most women know that if their mother or sister has been diagnosed with breast cancer, they are at a higher risk. Having only one first-degree relative with a history of breast cancer puts you at higher risk.
If you have parents on the breast and / or ovarian cancer side of your FATHER and / or MOTHER side, it is recommended that you consult your health care provider about genetic testing.
BRCA genes: Mutations (inherited mutations) of two cancer-sensitive genes, called breast cancer 1 (BRCA1) and breast cancer 2 (BRCA2), are at the origin of these hereditary cancers.
Each year, about 16,000 new cases of breast cancer and ovarian cancer occur in people with modifications to their BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
Women at high risk of breast cancer may consider intensified breast cancer screening options (MRI in addition to mammography), prevention medications (if available), or mastectomy prevention surgery.
Early detection of breast cancer
If breast cancer is detected early, there are more treatment options and better chances of survival.
All women aged 20 and over must make a habit of performing regular self-examinations of the breasts.
Unless there is a family history or additional personal risk of breast cancer, annual mammograms should start at age 40.
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