Breast Cancer Awareness Month: The Importance of Early Detection

By Christina Musumeci

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to remind ourselves of the importance of early detection and breast self-awareness. Awareness helps us become knowledgeable about the warning signs and the risk factors and take action. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, accounting for 1 in 3 of all new female cancers. However, when it’s caught early, breast cancer is far more treatable. That’s why staying in tune with your body and keeping up with regular screenings matters so much. 

Many women first notice changes in their breasts themselves. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, 40% of breast cancers are initially detected when women feel a lump. That’s why getting to know the normal look and feel of your breasts can be such a powerful tool. When something seems different, you’ll be more likely to catch it early and bring it up with your healthcare provider.  

Breast Self-Awareness Checklist: 

• Know your normal look and feel 

• Check monthly, try a few days after your cycle ends 

• Watch for changes in size, shape, or skin texture 

• Feel for lumps or changes in texture, including underarms 

• Talk to your doctor if you spot anything new 

All women can benefit from a regular breast self-awareness practice, but those 40 and older may want to start annual mammograms, depending on their level of risk. The American Cancer Society recommends that those at average risk (those without a family history or a genetic mutation such as the BRCA) should consider getting annual mammograms starting at the age of 40. It is recommended that women 45-54 get them annually, and those 55 and older can opt to have one every other year. 

There are several risk factors for breast cancer that you cannot change, according to the CDC. These are things like getting older, genetic mutations, starting your menstrual cycle before age 12, and a family or personal history of breast cancer. The good news is that there are several risk factors you can change. These include not being physically active, being overweight or obese after menopause, taking hormones, or drinking alcohol and smoking.

If you’re wondering where to schedule a mammogram, there are several options close to home. 

• The Women’s Health Department at UNC Blue Ridge. Call 828-580-4661 

• Mobile Mammography, a mammography bus based in Morganton. Call (877) 318-1349 

• The Good Samaritan Clinic, which makes referrals and offers financial assistance for those who qualify. Call (828) 212-4185 

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers free or low-cost screenings through their National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP). Call 1–800–CDC–INFO 

• The National Cancer Institute can direct you to free or low-cost programs. Call 1–800–4–CANCER 

It’s also important to remember that women’s health goes far beyond breast cancer. The Burke County Health Department offers services to support women through different stages of life, including reproductive health options such as family planning, maternity care, Care Management for High-Risk Pregnancies, Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) programs, and primary care that includes wellness and sick visits. From birth control and STD testing to pregnancy support and nutrition services through the maternity clinic and the WIC program, these offerings take a broad approach to keeping women healthy. No matter your stage of life, you can get the care and support you need. Call today to schedule an appointment and learn more about these services.  

So, this October, take a moment to check in with yourself and the women in your life. If you’re due for a mammogram, make the call to schedule one. If you’ve noticed any changes in your breasts, reach out to your healthcare provider. And most importantly, share this message with your friends, sisters, daughters, and neighbors. A simple reminder could encourage someone else to take action, and together we can make a difference in early detection and women’s health.