Breast Cancer - Did You Know?

Excluding melanoma (skin) and sarcoma cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women accounting for 1 out of every 4 women in the United States. Symptoms of breast cancer may vary. Women should examine their breasts monthly so that they know what feels and looks normal for them. Many cancers are found by regular mammography after age 40 before any symptoms are felt. Many breast changes – including lumps – are not cancer, but if you notice one or more of these symptoms for more than two weeks, see your doctor.

Symptoms

• Lump or mass in your breast
• Enlarged lymph nodes in the armpit
• Changes in breast size, shape, skin texture, or color
• Skin redness
• Dimpling or puckering
• Nipple changes or discharge
• Scaliness
• Nipple pulling to one side or a change in direction

Risk Factors

• Age - Most cases occur in women 50 or older; it is less common in women 35 or younger. Age is the most influential risk factor.
• Personal or Family History - Your risk is higher with a personal or family history (especially mother, sister, daughter) of breast or ovarian cancer.
• Hormones/Childbirth - Your risk is higher if you had your first period before age 12, began menopause after age 55, never had children or had your first child after age 30. Postmenopausal use of hormone therapy increases your risk of developing breast cancer.
• Weight - Obesity and weight gain after menopause are risk factors.

Facts

• An estimated 207,090 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2010.  
• Approximately 40,230 deaths from breast cancer will occur in 2010.  
• One in eight women will get breast cancer in her lifetime.  
• About 1,970 new cases of breast cancer were expected to affect men in 2010.  
• The incidence and mortality associated with breast cancer vary by race.  Although the incidence of breast cancer is highest in white women, mortality rates are highest among African Americans.

Early Detection of Breast Cancer

Screening Cancer: Screenings are medical test that are performed when a person has no symptoms. MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando recommends a four-pronged approach to breast cancer screening.

• Breast Self-Examination: Monthly, beginning at age 20
• Clinical Breast Examinations: Every one to three years from age 20 and every year after age 40
• Mammogram: Every year beginning at age 40
• Mammogram and MRI: Every year beginning at age 30 if high risk

Monthly Breast Self-Exams (BSEs): Beginning at age 20, BSE's can reveal changes that could signal breast cancer, such as a new thickness, lump, or a dimple in the skin. If you find something, don’t panic—most lumps are not cancerous. If you notice any changes, see your doctor immediately. Call 321.8HEALTH (321.843.2584) to receive a free Breast Self-Exam shower card.

Clinical Breast Examinations: Every one to three years from age 20 and every year after age 40 a clinical breast exam should be performed by a healthcare professional.

Regular Mammograms: Every year beginning at age 40 you should have a mammogram. They can detect growths long before they can be felt. Baseline mammograms are recommended for women ages 35 to 40; annuals are recommended after 40. You may begin earlier if you have a family history of breast cancer. Call Orlando Health to schedule your annual mammogram at 321.841.5274.

Talk to your doctor about your use of oral contraceptives and hormonal therapy. Maintain your ideal weight to decrease risk of cancer. Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day.