October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, making it an important reminder to do more than wear pink. Take a moment to think about your own breast health. When was your last mammogram? Do you know your personal risk factors? Have you noticed any changes that you have been putting off discussing with your healthcare provider?
Breast cancer screening cannot prevent breast cancer, but it can help detect cancer earlier, when it may be easier to treat.
Are You Due for a Mammogram?
For women at average risk, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening mammograms every two years from ages 40 through 74. Other medical organizations may recommend different screening schedules, which is why talking with your healthcare provider about your individual needs is important.
Your family history, personal medical history and other risk factors may affect when screening should begin or how often you should be screened. If you are unsure whether you are due, ask your primary care provider.
Don’t Ignore Changes Between Screenings
A mammogram is an important screening tool, but knowing what is normal for your breasts matters too. Breast cancer does not always cause noticeable symptoms, but changes should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Watch for a new lump in the breast or underarm, changes in breast size or shape, swelling or thickening, skin dimpling, nipple changes, unusual nipple discharge or persistent breast pain.
Many breast changes are caused by conditions other than cancer. Still, it is important to have new or unusual symptoms evaluated rather than waiting for your next scheduled mammogram.
Don’t Let Common Misconceptions Delay Screening
Feeling healthy does not mean you can skip screening. Mammograms are designed to look for breast cancer before symptoms develop. Likewise, having no family history of breast cancer does not mean you are not at risk.
Screening recommendations can also change over time. Rather than relying on what you were told years ago, make breast health part of your regular preventive care conversations.
Make Preventive Care a Priority
Preventive care is easier to prioritize when it is accessible. Having a trusted primary care provider and access to local imaging services can make it easier to stay current on screenings, discuss concerns, and follow up when additional care is needed.
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, turn awareness into action. Check when you had your last mammogram, talk with your healthcare provider about your risk and schedule your screening if you are due.