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Since we are celebrating pink October, we did some desk research on some breast cancer facts available online, which you would need to know.

 

1. Breast cancer is more common than you realize.

According to American Cancer Society (ACS), breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women, second only to skin cancer. The average U.S. woman has about a 12 percent risk of breast cancer in her lifetime. That means 1 in 8 women will develop the disease.

 

2. Ethnicity plays a role.

Breast cancer is more common among white women and African American women. While the rates for white women have stabilized, the rates of breast cancer in African American women have increased slightly in recent years.

cancer support

 

3. Symptoms can be more than just a lump.

While abreast lump is the most common symptom, it’s not the only one that indicates a risk of breast cancer. Signs can also include

  • Swelling of part or all of the breast
  • Skin irritation
  • Nipple retraction
  • Redness, scaliness or thickening of the nipple or breast skin
  • Nipple discharge other than breast milk

Women often find symptoms on their own. That’s why it’s so important to know how your breasts look and feel normally.

holding ribbon

 

4. Symptoms can also be outside the breast.

Breast cancer can spread to the lymph nodes. It can cause swelling or a lump around the collarbone or under the arm before the original tumor in the breast is even big enough to be felt. Your doctor should check any swollen lymph nodes, even if they’re painless.

 

5. Family history isn’t the only risk factor.

For example, if you had chest radiation therapy before the age of 30, you’re at a higher risk for breast cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most women with breast cancer have no known risk factors. They don’t have a history of the disease in their families either.

 

6. Screening recommendations change according to your risk.

The recommendations are slightly different for women with a high risk. ACS suggests an annual MRI and mammogram starting at age 30 for women at high risk. Women ages 40 to 44 should have the choice to get screened if they wish and women at average risk should get a yearly mammogram starting at age 45.

ribbon hand

 

7. Mammograms are important.

These screenings can detect breast changes years before you might notice any symptoms. This can help find breast cancer in its early stages, when it’s easier to treat. That’s why it’s so important to get them when your doctor recommends.

 

8. And regular mammograms are more important.

Decades of research show that women who are screened regularly are more likely to find their breast cancer early. That makes these women less likely to need aggressive treatment and more likely to be cured.

 

9. Breast cancer survival rate have increased amongst women.

Experts believe ths is due in part to finding the cancer earlier with regular screenings.

women

 

10. Monthly self-exams should still be done.

Careful observation of your own breasts doesn’t replace the importance of having your regular mammograms. But they are still an important part of your breast cancer screening regimen.

women laughing

Even if your mammogram is normal, if you feel a breast lump you should still see a doctor as not all of them are detectable.

Luckily in the UAE there are many centers and hospitals during the month of October that offer free consultation for breast cancer, free mammogram and ultrasound tests or at reduced prices. So don’t wait and go get yourself checked.

 

*The above article facts has been taken from adventisthealth.org

 

 

Tags: pink october facts active life