Go Beyond Thinking Pink

Chances are you've known someone with cancer, and you know that it's time for pink ribbons again. October is also a reminder to do everything possible to stay healthy, especially when it comes to breast health.

First, remember that while discovering a lump in your breast can be alarming, not all lumps are cancerous. In fact, many are benign or noncancerous and will go away on their own. It's important, however, to monitor any changes in your breasts and discuss them with your healthcare provider, as some benign breast lumps may increase the risk of developing breast cancer later on.

Benign Breast Disease: Types to Look Out For

Benign breast disease is common and can cause significant changes in the breasts. One common type of benign breast lump is a cyst, which can feel either soft or hard and can be found close to the surface of the breast or deep in breast tissue. Cysts can be diagnosed with a mammogram or ultrasound.

Another type of benign breast lump is a fibroadenoma—a solid, smooth noncancerous lump most commonly found in women in their 20s and 30s. Fibroadenomas can often be diagnosed with a mammogram or ultrasound, and have been linked to an increased risk of cancer, so regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is crucial.

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

Certain risk factors for breast cancer cannot be changed, such as age and gender. Women 50 and older are at higher risk of developing breast cancer, and while it does occur in men, it's more common among women. Having a family history of breast cancer can increase your risk, especially if the condition occurs in a close relative like a mother, sister or daughter.

Some risk factors for breast cancer, such as lifestyle habits and environmental exposures, can be changed. For example, smoking, lack of exercise and overuse of alcohol can increase breast cancer risks.

It's important to note that while certain factors may increase the risk of breast cancer, these risk factors do not mean you will develop breast cancer. However, knowing these risk factors can help you and your doctor make informed decisions about your health and screening plan—and screenings can help find cancer early when it is easier to treat.

Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines

The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that women between 40 and 74, at average risk for breast cancer, should get a mammogram every two years. Women younger than 40 should talk to their healthcare provider about the timeline, benefits and risks of screening with mammograms and MRIs.

So, this October, if you are due for a mammogram, take the time to prioritize yourself and early detection.

Back