October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an important reminder to prioritize your breast health and stay on top of recommended screenings.
“Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among women in the United States,” says Bronwyn Richards, M.D., at OGA Women’s Health. “While awareness has grown, misconceptions about breast cancer and mammography can sometimes keep women from getting the screening they need.”
This October, we’re separating a few common breast cancer myths from the facts—and reminding you that one of the most important things you can do for your breast health is schedule your annual mammogram.
MYTH VS. FACT: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT BREAST CANCER
MYTH:
If breast cancer doesn’t run in my family, I’m not at risk.
FACT:
Most women diagnosed with breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease. While family history can increase your risk, every woman should understand her personal risk factors and follow recommended screening guidelines.
MYTH:
I don’t need a mammogram if I don’t feel a lump.
FACT:
Mammograms can detect breast cancer before a lump can be felt or other symptoms appear. That’s why routine screening is so important—even when you feel healthy and have no breast concerns.
MYTH:
Breast cancer always causes a lump.
FACT:
A lump is one possible sign of breast cancer, but it isn’t the only one. Changes in the size or shape of the breast, skin changes, nipple changes or nipple discharge may also be signs of cancer and should also be discussed with your healthcare provider. Early breast cancer may also have no noticeable symptoms at all.
MYTH:
Finding a breast lump means you have breast cancer.
FACT:
Most breast lumps are not cancer. However, any new lump or breast change should be evaluated by your healthcare provider.
MYTH:
If my last mammogram was normal, I don’t need another one.
FACT:
Breast cancer can develop at any age. Staying consistent with recommended screening gives your healthcare team the opportunity to compare images from year to year and identify changes that may need a closer look.
MAKE YOUR MAMMOGRAM A PRIORITY
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is about more than wearing pink. It’s an opportunity to take action for your health.
At OGA Women’s Health, we encourage patients to talk with their healthcare provider about their individual breast cancer risk and the screening schedule that is right for them. Annual screening mammography beginning at age 40 is recommended for women at average risk by the American College of Radiology and Society of Breast Imaging. Women at higher risk may need to begin screening earlier or receive additional imaging.
If you’re due—or overdue—for your mammogram, October is the perfect time to check it off your list.
Put yourself and your breast health first. Schedule your mammogram today.
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