Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time to spread awareness and show honor and support to anyone affected by breast cancer. In Montana, breast cancer is the number one type of cancer diagnosed among women, and the number two cause of cancer death among women, according to the Montana Department of Health and Human Services (MT DPHHS). Early detection is key, and below you can find helpful information on breast density, risk factors, and effective screening measures.
Breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells begin to grow uncontrollably in one or both breasts. Both men and women can get breast cancer, and the most common symptom of breast cancer is a new lump or mass, detected by feeling the breast or receiving screenings such as mammograms and breast MRIs. Both men and women should report any breast changes to a health care provider right away.
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), some risk factors for breast cancer include:
- Being female
- Aging
- Inheriting certain gene changes, such as BRCA1, BRCA2, CDH1, PALB2, PTEN, STK11, and TP53.
- Having a personal or family history of breast cancer
- Race and ethnicity
- Having dense breast tissue or certain benign breast conditions
- Starting menstrual periods early or going through menopause later
- Having radiation to your chest
Breast density is a risk factor that can greatly impact a patient’s screening. On September 10, the FDA required that health care facilities providing breast imaging services notify patients of their breast density in their mammography reports. Logan Health’s cancer and imaging departments are ahead of the curve; they have prioritized notifying patients of their breast density and providing breast density education prior to the FDA’s requirement. This crucial piece of knowledge can help individuals and their health care team as they develop a personalized screening plan.
According to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), individuals at average risk of breast cancer are recommended to have annual screening mammograms starting at age 40, and those with dense breasts should consider supplemental screening measures. Individuals between 25 to 39 years of age should see their health care provider for a checkup every 1 to 3 years, which should include a breast cancer risk assessment and, if not recently done, a breast exam. Anyone with an increased risk for developing breast cancer should see their provider once a year. Talk to your primary care provider to discuss your possible risks and build a screening schedule.
Genetic counseling and testing can also provide helpful information to one’s health care team as they assess their personal or family risk of breast cancer. Genetic counselors guide individuals in learning about the relationships between genetic and familial history and certain diseases, so that they can make more informed decisions about their health care.
For those in active treatment for breast cancer, Logan Health’s Cancer Support Services offers a range of programs geared toward wellness, education and social connection. Cancer Support Services partners with the community, donors, and volunteers to offer resources such as exercise classes, art therapy, wig fittings and beauty workshops. These services greatly enhance patients’ experiences throughout treatment, providing them comfort and assurance as they navigate their cancer journey.
With all of these resources, Logan Health encourages the community to stay on top of breast cancer screenings and support those who have been affected by breast cancer. By keeping up with our screenings, sharing these resources and giving hope to others, we can all do our part to spread awareness during this important month.