October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month—a time to raise awareness about breast cancer, encourage regular screening and remind women to make their health a priority.
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women. While some risk factors cannot be changed, understanding your personal risk can help you and your healthcare provider make informed decisions about screening and prevention.
What Can Increase Your Risk?
Breast cancer risk can be influenced by a combination of factors, including:
- Age: The risk of breast cancer generally increases as women get older.
- Family history: Having close relatives who have had breast or ovarian cancer may increase your risk.
- Genetic factors: Certain inherited gene changes, including BRCA1 and BRCA2, can increase breast cancer risk.
- Personal medical history: A previous breast cancer diagnosis or certain breast conditions may affect your risk.
- Lifestyle factors: Physical activity, alcohol consumption and body weight can also play a role in breast cancer risk.
Having one or more risk factors does not mean you will develop breast cancer. Likewise, women without known risk factors can still develop breast cancer. That's why routine screening and conversations with your healthcare provider are important.
Know Your Family History
One of the simplest things you can do is learn about your family's health history.
If your mother, sister, daughter or other close relative has been diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer, let your healthcare provider know. Your provider can help determine whether you may benefit from earlier or additional screening or genetic counseling.
Don't Wait to Talk With Your Provider
Your healthcare needs change throughout your life. Regular visits with your primary care provider give you an opportunity to discuss your personal and family history, preventive screenings and any concerns you may have.
If you're unsure when you should begin mammograms or how often you should be screened, start the conversation with your healthcare provider.
This October, take the time to understand your risk and make a plan for your breast health.
Learn about our Breast Care services at: https://panahospital.com/services/hospital-services/breast-care-services.
