Breast Health Information

Knowledge Can Help Save Your Life
Unfortunately, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer for women and is the leading cause of cancer death among Colorado women. However, screening tests are available that can often detect breast cancer early, when it is treatable. After years of extensive research that has improved treatments, 95 percent of women diagnosed with Stage I breast cancer live for at lease five years after their diagnosis.  Early detection saves lives.

Screening Recommendations
Susan G. Komen for the Cure recommends that women follow these four guidelines for breast cancer screenings for women at normal risk for developing the disease:

1. Know your risk

• Talk to your family to learn about your family health history
• Talk to your doctor about your personal risk of breast cancer

2. Get screened

• Ask your doctor which screening tests are right for you if you are at higher risk
• Have a mammogram every year starting at age 40 if you are at average risk
• Have a clinical breast exam at least every 3 years starting at 20, and every year starting at 40

3. Know what is normal for you and see your health care provider right away if you notice breast changes:

• Lump, hard knot or thickening
• Swelling, warmth, redness or darkening
• Change in the size or shape of the breast
• Dimpling or puckering of the skin
• Itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple
• Pulling in of your nipple or other parts of the breast
• Nipple discharge that starts suddenly
• New pain in one spot that doesn't go away

4. Make healthy lifestyle choices

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Add exercise into your routine
• Limit alcohol intake

Women at Higher Risk
Some women are at higher risk of developing breast cancer because of family history, being a carrier of the BRCA1 or BRCA1 genetic mutation, personal history of breast cancer, or other factors.  These women may need to start screening earlier or undergo different screening tests. Women should speak with their doctors to discuss their personal situation.

Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer
The following signs and symptoms can indicate the presence of breast cancer or other breast diseases.

• A lump, hard knot or thickening
• Swelling, warmth, redness or darkening
• Change in breast size or shape
• Dimpling or puckering of the skin
• Itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple
• Pulling in of your nipple or other parts of the breast
• Nipple discharge that starts suddenly
• New pain in one spot

If you experience one of these symptoms, you should see your doctor immediately.

A Few Key Facts to Remember:

• While breast cancer most often strikes older women, breast cancer can occur in young women.
• Men can get breast cancer, too. If you are a man with a breast lump, you should see your physician immediately.
• A breast lump does not always mean breast cancer. However, it is essential to speak to your doctor if you experience a sign or symptom of breast cancer.

Source: The National Susan G. Komen for the Cure

Additional Information:

Please visit the National Susan G. Komen for the Cure’s website for more detailed information about breast health and breast cancer. Click here to go to www.komen.org

To Learn More Locally:

The Denver Affiliate can provide educational materials about breast cancer and has trained volunteers who are available to speak about breast cancer to groups within our service area.  For more information, please contact Amarilis Viera, Director of Education and Marketing, at 303.744.2088 ext. 302 or aviera@komendenver.org