Get Checked: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

In October, women are reminded of the dangers of breast cancer, ways to identify it and what to do if they suspect or are diagnosed with cancer.  This isn’t something that should be limited to one month, but rather should be a way of life, like brushing your teeth or changing the oil in your car.  One you do every day, the other every 30,000 miles or when that flashing red light reminds you.  Wouldn’t it be nice to have a warning light for breast cancer?  Well, there are a number of things you can do to protect yourself and hopefully avoid that flashing light.

Women ages 20 and older should perform breast self-exams monthly.  The American Cancer Society provides a guide; just click here for an explanation on how you can correctly perform an exam.

Of course, a self exam cannot be relied on alone.  Regular mammograms are key in the early detection and fight against breast cancer. A mammogram is a diagnostic tool, which can detect breast cancer in its earliest stages, before a lump can be felt. Finding breast cancer early gives women the greatest chance of survival and the best treatment options.  

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) offers a Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool, which is an interactive tool designed by scientists at the NCI and the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP).  It helps estimate a woman's risk of developing invasive breast cancer.

Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool

Further, you should be aware of possible risk factors that can contribute to your risk of breast cancer. The following are offered by the NCI:
•    Age
•    Age at the start of menstruation
•    Age at first live birth
•    Number of first-degree relatives (mother, sisters, daughters) with 
     breast cancer
•    Number of previous breast biopsies (whether positive or negative)
•    At least one breast biopsy with atypical hyperplasia

As they say, knowledge is power.  You have the knowledge please share and use it year round.

“People whose lives have been touched by cancer need to affirm the possibility of a quality life after their diagnosis,” said Kenneth Gold, MD, co-chair of the Oncology Service Line for Catholic Health Services and chief of Oncology at Good Samaritan. “The more patients know about their type of cancer, treatment options and chances for recovery, the better equipped they will be to deal with the fear, confusion, and anxiety that they may experience. CHS has a full range of resources, including breast cancer and a patient navigation program to provide patients with the knowledge and care they need to battle cancer.”

At CHS, a number of our hospitals offer advance detection, breast health navigators and a continuum of care.  To find a physician or breast cancer services at any Catholic Health Services, please call 1-855-CHS-4500 or visit www.chsli.org