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Every October, we come together to honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This is a time to reflect, learn, and take steps to protect our health. Breast cancer touches many lives, whether personally or through loved ones, and awareness is one of the most powerful tools we have. By understanding risk factors, recognizing symptoms, and keeping up with regular screenings, we can make early detection possible. We've put together some important information about breast cancer screening below. If you have any questions, your NWPC care team is a great place to start!
Understanding Risk Factors
While breast cancer can affect anyone, some factors may increase the chances of developing it. These include:
- Age
- Pre-cancerous cells in breast lumps
- Early menstruation or late menopause
- Obesity after menopause
- Recent use of certain oral birth control methods
- Never having children, or having children after age 30
- Personal or family history of breast or endometrial cancer
Not all risk factors can be controlled, but knowing and understanding your personal risk factors helps you and your provider make the best decisions for your health.
Signs and Symptoms
Your body often gives signals when something is not right. Some signs of breast cancer may include:
- A lump or hard knot in breast tissue
- Thickening of breast tissue
- Swelling, redness, or changes in color
- A change in breast size or shape
- Dimpling or puckering of the skin or nipple
- Itchy, scaly sore or rash on the breast
- Nipple discharge
If you notice any of these changes, do not wait. Schedule an appointment with your provider. Being proactive brings peace of mind and allows for earlier care if needed.
Routine screenings are one of the most effective ways to detect breast cancer early. For women ages 50 to 74, mammograms are recommended every two years. If you are younger than 50 or older than 74, your provider can help decide if screening is right for you based on your personal health and risk factors.
Self-Exams: Getting to Know Yourself
Along with regular mammograms, self-exams are a meaningful way to stay connected to your breast health. Here are two self-exams to get started with:
- Standing Exam: Place one hand behind your head and use the pads of your three middle fingers on the other hand to gently examine your breast in a consistent pattern such as circular, up-and-down, or wedge. Repeat on the other side.
- Lying Down Exam: Place a pillow or towel under one shoulder, with that arm behind your head. Use your other hand to check the breast and underarm area, then repeat for the opposite side.
Practicing self-exams helps you become familiar with your body so you can notice any changes quickly.
Taking Care, Together
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is about more than pink ribbons. It is about supporting one another and encouraging everyone to take steps toward better health. Whether it is booking your mammogram, starting self-exams, or having open conversations with your provider, each step matters.
At Northwest Primary Care, we are here to walk alongside you with compassionate care and services, including mammography at Northwest Integrated Care. If it is time for your screening, or if you are unsure when to begin, your NWPC provider and care team is a great place to start!
This October, let us care for ourselves and each other. Awareness today can mean more tomorrows.
503.659.4988