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The Importance of Early Detection for Breast Cancer

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month! According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Keeping up with your annual mammogram screenings each year is very important as early detection is the best detection. Eva Duckett, MD, Director of Breast Imaging with Adventist HealthCare Imaging shares the importance of early detection and how to reduce your risk.

When should women start routine yearly mammograms?

Women of average risk should start yearly mammograms at the age of 40. Women who have a family history of breast cancer should talk to their primary care provider about the best time to start screening.

I don’t have a family history of breast cancer; do I still need an annual mammogram?

Yes, even if you do not have a family history of breast cancer, you still need a mammogram each year. In fact, 85% of women who are diagnosed with breast cancer don’t have a family history of the disease. By having a mammogram each year, the likelihood of the cancer being discovered early is greater.

What are common risk factors for breast cancer?

Risk factors are often categorized into two types. Risk factors you can change and risk factors you cannot change.

Risk factors you can control are:

· Being physically active

· Maintaining a healthy weight

· Eating healthy

Risk factors you cannot control include:

· Age

· Family history

· Genetic mutations

· Reproductive history

How can I lower my risk for breast cancer?

Lowering your risk can help decrease your risk for developing breast cancer. Lower your risk by:

· Eating a healthy diet

· Being physically active

· Maintaining a healthy weight

· Scheduling your yearly mammogram

Want to learn your risk for breast cancer? Take Adventist HealthCare’s breast cancer health risk assessment to learn your risk for breast cancer by visiting YourBreastHealth.com.