Know your risk and don’t delay breast cancer screenings

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women behind skin cancer, with an estimated 276,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 48,000 new cases of non-invasive breast cancer cases expected in 2020. Additionally, it is estimated that over 42,000 women will die this year alone from breast cancer. You may have heard the statistic that 1 in 8 women will get breast cancer in their lifetime. So the question remains, what can we do to protect ourselves?

Annual breast screening with mammograms is the pillar. The American College of Radiology, the Society of Breast Imaging and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommend yearly screening with mammograms beginning at age 40, and the American Cancer Society recommends yearly screening beginning no later than age 45 (with optional screening between the ages of 40-45). For younger patients and those with dense breast tissue, tomosynthesis mammography, commonly referred to as 3D mammograms, is the most sensitive screening test.

Another important aspect of breast health is knowing your personal risk. There are many factors that affect the risk of breast cancer, both environmental and hereditary. Factors that can increase your lifetime risk of breast cancer include: family history of breast cancer, especially first degree relatives such as mother, sister or daughter; known genetic mutation (the most well-known gene mutation is BRCA, but several other mutations increase the breast cancer risk as well); obesity/diet; family history of ovarian cancer; history of estrogen/hormone usage; prior breast biopsies; history of atypical cells in the breast; and increased breast tissue density. While we may not have control over some of these risk factors, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise can help decrease your risk. Additionally, if you have several of these factors which place you at increased risk of breast cancer, you may qualify for supplementary breast screening exams such as a breast MRI. Talk to your primary care physician about your breast health and risk factors.

Lastly, discuss any changes you notice in your breasts including new lumps, nipple discharge or skin changes with your primary physician as additional testing or imaging may be necessary. Ascension Providence Breast Health Center offers all imaging modalities including 3D mammograms, breast ultrasounds, stereotactic and ultrasound guided breast biopsies, and Breast MRI. Our staff includes a certified breast nurse navigator who will walk you through any follow up imaging and biopsies that are necessary, and facilitates meetings for our breast cancer survivor group.

Regular cancer screening is still important, even amidst the pandemic. Ascension Providence continues to follow safety protocols to stop the spread of the virus, including visitor restrictions, social distancing measures, universal masking and virtual visits and consultations. Do not delay annual screenings, as early detection is critically important to the best breast cancer outcomes.