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According to the American Cancer Society, by the end of 2018, approximately 266,120 new cases of invasive breast cancer will have been diagnosed in women, and about 63,960 new cases of carcinoma-in-situ cancer) will have been diagnosed. Given these estimates, one in one women is currently at risk of developing breast cancer in her lifetime. These statistics continue to make breast cancer the most common cancer in women just after skin cancer.
In October, when it's Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it's the perfect time to take stock of our knowledge of this disease, its risks and its symptoms. But at Raleigh General Hospital, we also think that awareness lasts longer than a month. It's about staying informed and helping you take the steps you need to fight breast cancer, including early screening with annual mammograms. But let's start with a brief reminder of the basics of breast cancer.
How does it start?
In simple terms, breast cancer is caused by a genetic abnormality. Only a very small percentage (5 to 10%) of breast cancers comes from an abnormality that you inherited from your mother or father. The vast majority is caused by abnormalities arising from general aging and wear and tear of the body. In fact, aging is probably the most important risk factor for breast cancer, with most breast cancers found in women age 50 and older.
Other risks include a family history of breast cancer, a lack of physical activity, and overweight or obesity after menopause. Most women have certain risk factors, including younger women. Women under age 45 account for about 11% of all new cases of breast cancer in the United States.
How do I know if I have it?
The symptoms of breast cancer can vary from person to person.
Warning signs include:
l New piece in the chest or armpits
l thickening or swelling of part of the chest
l Irritation or dimpling of the breast skin
l Redness or scaly skin on the chest
pain or traction of the nipple area
l Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood
l Any change in the size or shape of the breast
Pain in any area of the breast
It is important to remember that these symptoms can also be caused by conditions other than cancer, and that some people diagnosed with breast cancer have no symptoms. This is why early detection is so essential to fight the disease as effectively as possible.
Annual mammograms
and reduce your risks
Early detection is essential to fight breast cancer and can facilitate the establishment of a treatment plan. And one of the best methods of early detection is an annual mammogram. A mammogram is a simple and systematic screening that can detect breast cancer sooner than waiting for the onset of symptoms. Regular mammograms are recommended for women 40 years and older. If you have a higher risk of breast cancer, you may need to start a regular mammogram sooner. It's a good idea to talk to your doctor about your risks and the most appropriate time to start a mammogram.
In addition to annual mammograms for early detection, you can take proactive steps to reduce your risk of breast cancer, including regular exercise, adequate sleep, healthy eating, low alcohol consumption, and avoidance. chemicals that can cause cancer.
Although breast cancer can be a scary proposition, planning an annual mammogram to facilitate early detection and adopting a healthy lifestyle to reduce your risk can give you the peace of mind that comes with the health of your breasts.
If you want to schedule a mammogram or talk to a doctor about the health of your breasts, the Raleigh General Hospital can help you. Visit the "Find a Doctor" tab on RaleighGeneral.com, and they will put you in touch with the right care. For more information on breast cancer, visit www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer and www.breastcancer.org.
Debbie Vaughn is the Chief Nurse
Officer at Raleigh General Hospital
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