Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Understanding Your Risk

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women in the United States. According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer is a serious, sometimes fatal, disease where abnormal cells in the breast grow out of control, form tumors, and can metastasize to other parts of the body if left untreated. While breast cancer is far less common in men, it can affect anyone. The good news is that early detection can make a significant difference in treatment options and outcomes.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and an annual reminder to learn about your risk factors, understand the warning signs, and stay up to date on recommended screenings.

According to the CDC, risk factors for breast cancer can include age, family history, certain genetic changes, personal health history, and lifestyle factors. While some risk factors cannot be changed, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following your healthcare provider's screening recommendations can help catch the disease early or prevent it entirely.

Know the Signs

Breast cancer does not always cause symptoms in its early stages, which is why routine screenings are so important. However, you should contact your healthcare provider if you notice changes such as:

• A new lump in the breast or underarm area
• Swelling or thickening of part of the breast
• Changes in breast size or shape
• Dimpling or irritation of the breast skin
• Nipple pain or changes in the nipple
• Nipple discharge that is not breast milk
• Redness, scaliness, or unusual changes to the breast or nipple

Having one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have breast cancer, but it is important to have any changes evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Talk to Your Doctor About Screening

The CDC and other health organizations recommend that women discuss breast cancer screening with their healthcare provider to determine what is right for them based on their age, risk factors, and family history.

You can learn more about breast cancer screenings, risk factors, and prevention from trusted resources such as:

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• National Cancer Institute
• Susan G. Komen Foundation

Your Benefits Support Preventive Care

Your Local 94 benefits cover preventive care services, including mammograms, that are designed to help you take charge of your health.

Preventive care may include routine wellness visits, screenings, and other services that help identify health concerns early. Regular checkups and recommended screenings give you and your healthcare provider the opportunity to discuss your risk factors and create a plan that is right for you.

To learn more about covered preventive care services, visit our Preventive Care page to learn how your benefits can better support your overall health.