Empower Yourself: Essential Tips to Reduce Your Breast Cancer Risk Through Mammograms and Lifestyle Choices – The Downey Patriot

Understanding Breast Cancer: What You Need to Know

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to reflect on a serious issue affecting many women. In the U.S., around 310,720 women were diagnosed with breast cancer last year, leading to over 42,250 deaths, as reported by the American Cancer Society. Given that one in eight women will face this diagnosis in her lifetime, understanding breast cancer’s symptoms and the importance of early detection can be life-changing.

Dr. Stephanie Angarita, a breast surgical oncologist at Kaiser Permanente Downey Medical Center, emphasizes that early detection is key. “Breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women. When caught early, treatment is much more effective,” she notes.

While most cases occur in women aged 50 and older, younger women are also at risk. The CDC indicates that about 10% of new breast cancer cases are in women under 45. Men can develop breast cancer too, though it accounts for less than 1% of all cases.

Importance of Mammograms

Mammograms, X-rays of the breast, play a vital role in early detection. There are two types: screening mammograms for women without symptoms and diagnostic mammograms for those with specific concerns. At Kaiser Permanente, women with average risk can get mammograms every 1 to 2 years starting at age 40. For those with a higher risk, it’s essential to consult with a doctor to determine a personalized screening schedule.

Once you reach 75, discussing the benefits and drawbacks of continued screening with your doctor is advisable.

Symptoms to Watch For

According to the CDC, breast cancer symptoms can include:

• A new lump in the breast or underarm
• Changes in breast size or shape
• Nipple discharge not related to breastfeeding, especially blood

Dr. Angarita urges, “Don’t ignore signs that concern you. It’s vital to be proactive about your health.”

Breast Cancer Risk Factors

While some risks, like age and family history, are beyond control, there are ways to reduce your likelihood of developing breast cancer. The CDC suggests maintaining a healthy lifestyle by:

• Keeping a healthy weight
• Exercising regularly
• Discussing family history with a doctor
• Asking about the risks of hormone replacement or birth control pills
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Breastfeeding if possible

Dr. Angarita explains, “Living healthfully can lower your chances of getting breast cancer and other diseases.”

Recent Insights

Understanding the impact of social media and public conversations about breast cancer awareness has also grown. In recent years, campaigns on platforms like Instagram and Twitter have encouraged people to share their stories and support one another. This trend has made the subject more approachable and has influenced many women to seek testing and treatment.

According to a 2022 survey, approximately 70% of women felt that online communities positively affected their awareness and willingness to discuss breast cancer. Online discussions can empower individuals to take charge of their health and advocate for their needs.

For more detailed information about breast cancer awareness, you can visit the American Cancer Society website. By staying informed and proactive, we can all contribute to early detection and better outcomes in the fight against breast cancer.

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