Screening for Breast Cancer

May 23, 2022, 4:34 pm

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer diagnosis in women in the US. With the number of new cases increasing every year, it is important to know about the risk factors and screening techniques that can help your doctor detect cancer early.

Certain lifestyle factors could increase your risk of developing breast cancer, such as: being overweight, having a low activity level (getting less than 4 hours of exercise per week), or having two or more alcoholic drinks per day.

The United States Preventative Task Force recommends that women ages 50 through 74 get screened for breast cancer by getting a mammogram every 2 years.

A mammogram is an x-ray that is specifically designed to look at breast tissue. It can detect cancer before a lump becomes big enough to feel, or even before a patient notices any symptoms. Finding breast cancer before a large lump develops means that it will be easier to treat.

An annual mammogram may be covered by your health plan. Visit your doctor to talk about any concerns you have and ask about scheduling your screening.

To learn more about breast cancer, prevention, and more screening techniques, visit CoxHealth’s Women’s Health webpage on breast care.

If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, CoxHealth’s breast cancer services page can help you learn about different treatment options, find support, and get contact information for consultations and Cancer Care facilities in the area, including the High Risk Breast Clinic.

Connect with others: Hulston Cancer Center offers a free support group for breast cancer thrivers and survivors called Reach Together.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/statistics/index.htm

https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/breast-cancer-screening

https://health.mo.gov/living/healthcondiseases/chronic/cancer/breast-cancer.php

https://www.coxhealth.com/services/womens-health/breast-care/