Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed nationally every October. The most commonly diagnosed cancer among millions globally, every woman deserves equitable access to women’s healthcare, early detection, and timely treatment to improve her chances of survival. I am here to help you define your normal, access preventive care, and stay healthy.
Prioritize Early Detection of Breast Cancer
Getting older is one of the top risks of developing breast cancer. When women reach age 40, annual mammograms are the recommendation for those of average risk. Women who have a genetic link to breast cancer may receive a recommendation from their doctor to begin annual mammograms at age 35.
Early detection of breast cancer is essential for an increased recovery and survival rate. So too is access to timely, high-quality care. Regular screenings are incredibly important for every woman, even if year after year the mammograms are normal.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Most early-stage breast cancer is detected in a mammogram, but some symptoms reveal themselves. The most common warning signs of breast cancer include:
- Change in look or feel of the breast or nipple
- Nipple discharge, scaliness, or rash
- Lumps or knots in the breast or underarm
- Swelling, warmth, redness, or darkening of the breast
- Change in size or shape of breast
- Dimpling or puckering of breast or nipple
Raise Personal Awareness
Every woman is different, which means “normal” varies for every woman too when it comes to breast health. In addition to accounting for your family history of breast cancer, it’s essential to conduct self-breast exams and see your doctor regularly for breast exams and underarm exams to define a baseline of good breast health. If something doesn’t look or feel right, you will recognize the abnormalities and can reach out for women’s healthcare.
Screenings are an essential part of preventive care, and as women transition through different phases of life, the results or alterations in screenings tell a story that your doctor follows to keep you healthy, strong, and thriving and, if necessary, prescribes additional testing and treatment.
Disparities in Women’s Healthcare
Breast cancer can touch anyone, and constant research and awareness is necessary. New therapies and targeted treatments have improved outcomes for many women, but even more options are needed, especially for patients whose treatments have stopped working.
There is also an inequity in breast cancer treatments for under-resourced communities nationwide, and there is a disparity in treatment for Black and white women. Black women in the United States are about 40% more likely to die from breast cancer.
See Dr. Maria Swetech to Define Your Normal in Breast Health
Contact me, Dr. Maria Swetech, to establish your normal in breast health and to discuss all types of women’s health concerns, including colorectal screenings, hormone changes, infertility, mental health, dermatology, and more. Women are strong, but you can’t do it all alone – it’s important to have an established women’s healthcare team on your side. Make an appointment with me when you’re ready.
Nothing in this blog is official medical advice. See your doctor for customized care.
