In the U.S. today there are more than 2.8 million breast cancer survivors. About one in eight women will develop breast cancer, To reduce your risk of breast cancer, take steps to proactively identify signs and symptoms in its early stages.
The James E. Cary Cancer Center encourages women to get regular screening mammograms that may detect cancer before it can be seen or felt. Individuals should understand the following risk factors of breast cancer and modify factors that they can influence. In addition, it is recommended that all women practice regular breast self exams.
What are the Risk Factors for Breast Cancer?
Breast Cancer risk factors include:
Age – The risk of developing breast cancer increases as women age.
Race – Women of certain races or ethnicities are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
Alcohol – Use of alcohol can contribute to a higher risk.
Weight – Overweight women have a higher risk of breast cancer.
Exercise – Lack of physical activity can contribute to a higher risk.
Family History – Risk is higher in women whose close family members have had breast cancer.
What are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer?
Symptoms may include:
- swelling of all or part of a breast (even if there is no distinct lump)
- skin irritation or dimpling
- breast or nipple pain
- nipple retraction (turning inward)
- redness, scaliness, or thickening of the nipple or breast skin
- nipple discharge other than breast milk.
It is also important for women to know if you have a family history of breast cancer. The James E. Cary Cancer Center encourages the women in our community to detect breast cancer early with regular self-exams and mammograms.
Where can I learn more about breast cancer?
For more information on breast cancer, call the James E. Cary Cancer Center at 573-406-5813.