Breast Cancer Awareness: The Importance of Early Detection
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when communities across the globe come together to spread awareness, offer support, and reinforce the critical message that early detection saves lives. Here at Granville Health System, we are committed to empowering our community with knowledge, resources, and screenings to help detect breast cancer in its earliest stages.
Understanding the Importance of Early Detection
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in women, affecting 1 in 8 women in the U.S. in their lifetime. While it is a serious disease, early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. When breast cancer is caught early, before it has spread, the 5-year survival rate is nearly 99%. However, if detected later, this rate can drop to 27%.
Early detection allows for less invasive treatment options, often reducing the need for aggressive interventions like chemotherapy. This is why regular screenings and being proactive about breast health are so important.
Granville Health System encourages everyone to know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, which can include:
- A lump in the breast or underarm
- Swelling or thickening of the breast
- Changes in the size or shape of the breast
- Nipple discharge other than breast milk
- Persistent breast pain or irritation
The Role of Mammograms in Early Detection
According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, mammograms remain the gold standard for early detection. These low-dose X-rays can detect tumors that are too small to be felt during a self-exam. At Granville Health System, our advanced imaging technology provides high-quality mammograms, allowing our physicians to detect any abnormalities early. Our compassionate team will walk you through the process every step of the way, ensuring you feel comfortable and informed.
The American Cancer Society recommends that women have the option to start screening with an annual mammogram at age 40. However, those with a family history of breast cancer or genetic predispositions, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, may need to start earlier and undergo more frequent screenings. Genetic testing can help identify these mutations, allowing for personalized screening plans.
The Importance of Breast Self-Exams (BSE) and Clinical Breast Exams (CBE)
In addition to mammograms, breast self-exams (BSE) and clinical breast exams (CBE) are critical parts of early detection. Regular self-exams help you become familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts, so you can detect any changes early. A clinical breast exam, performed by a healthcare professional during your routine check-up, can further aid in detecting abnormalities that might be missed during a self-exam.
- Breast Self-Exam (BSE): Conduct once a month, ideally a few days after your period. Report any changes such as lumps or unusual discharge to your doctor.
- Clinical Breast Exam (CBE): A healthcare provider should perform this exam every 1-3 years, depending on your age and risk factors.
Genetic Factors and Higher-Risk Individuals
While most breast cancer cases are not inherited, about 5-10% are related to genetic mutations, such as those in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. If you have a family history of breast cancer, particularly if a relative was diagnosed before age 50 or if there’s a history of ovarian cancer, your risk increases significantly.
At Granville Health System, we offer consultations to help you understand your genetic risk and provide genetic testing for those at higher risk. Women with genetic mutations may also benefit from earlier or more frequent screenings, including breast MRI, to catch any abnormalities early.
Support for All Women
Granville Health System is committed to providing all women with the resources and support they need, including financial assistance for screenings and connections to local support groups for emotional and psychological help.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start getting mammograms?
The American Cancer Society recommends women begin annual mammograms at age 40. However, if you have a family history or are at high risk due to genetic factors, consult your doctor about starting earlier.
What are the early symptoms of breast cancer?
Early symptoms can include lumps in the breast or underarm, changes in breast size or shape, nipple discharge, or persistent pain. However, many breast cancers show no symptoms in the early stages, which is why regular screenings are so important.
What should I do if I find a lump?
If you notice a lump or other concerning symptoms during a self-exam, schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately. Not all lumps are cancerous, but it’s important to get them checked out as soon as possible.
Get Involved and Spread Awareness
We invite you to schedule your screening and share the importance of early detection with your friends and family. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against breast cancer.
Call 919-690-3420 to schedule your mammogram today. To learn more about Granville Health System’s services, visit ghshospital.org.
