Mammograms and early detection
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month!
Did you know that there are ways to reduce your risk of breast cancer? If caught early, many people go on to live long and healthy lives.
Regular mammograms (an X-ray of the breast tissue) are the best way to detect breast cancer early. They can sometimes detect breast cancer up to three years before it can be felt during a self-exam.
“In March of 2013 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. As upsetting as it was — I am one of the lucky ones. My cancer was found during a routine mammogram in the very early stage,” said Laura Homan, an environmental specialist who works at the Washington State Department of Health, and a breast cancer survivor.
Laura learned much during her treatment, which included “A whirlwind of appointments and loads of tests and a whole new language.” And that “it was okay to accept and ask for help.”
Most major health insurance plans cover mammograms for free. If you or a loved one has limited or no coverage, or a low-income, the Breast, Cervical and Colon Health Program at the Washington State Department of Health can help you find out if you qualify for free screenings.
Besides regular screening mammograms, there are other ways to reduce your risk for developing breast cancer. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and not drinking alcohol are all ways you can reduce the chances of developing breast cancer. Other ways to reduce your risk are available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
When should I get screened for breast cancer?
If you are age 40–49, ask your doctor when you should begin screenings. If you are 50 or over, check with your doctor to see how often you should be screened. Your doctor will consider all your risk factors and family history to determine the best schedule for you.
Transgender women over 50 who have undergone HRT (hormone replacement therapy) for 5–10 years should talk with their doctor about screenings. Here’s more information about breast cancer screening for transgender women. Transgender men who have not had a bilateral mastectomy should follow the screening guidelines for cisgender (non-transgender) women.
If you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, you should speak with your doctor about your risk, regardless of your sex or gender identity. You might require earlier or more frequent screenings due to an increased risk. (Approximately 11 percent of breast cancer cases are detected in people under 45 — learn more about the risk factors for younger people.)
During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, make time to learn more about your personal risk of developing breast cancer — knowing is half the battle!
