Know your risk and don’t delay breast cancer screenings

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women after skin cancer, with an estimated 276,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 48,000 new cases of non-invasive breast cancer cases expected in 2020. Data from Texas Health and Human Services confirms breast cancer was the most common new cancer diagnosed in Texas women. It is estimated that over 42,000 women will die this year alone from breast cancer.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to increase awareness of a disease that will affect 1 in 8 women over the course of their lifetimes. What can women do to help protect themselves?

First, annual breast screenings with mammograms are essential. The American College of Radiology, the Society of Breast Imaging and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommend yearly screening with mammograms beginning at age 40, and the American Cancer Society recommends yearly screening beginning no later than age 45 (with optional screening between the ages of 40-45). For younger patients and those with dense breast tissue, tomosynthesis mammography, commonly referred to as 3D mammograms, is the most sensitive screening test.

It’s also important for women to understand their personal risk. There are many factors that affect the risk of breast cancer, including environmental and hereditary factors. Factors that can increase your lifetime risk of breast cancer include: family history of breast cancer, especially first degree relatives such as mother, sister or daughter; known genetic mutation; obesity/diet; family history of ovarian cancer; history of estrogen/hormone usage; prior breast biopsies; history of atypical cells in the breast; and increased breast tissue density. While we may not have control over some of these risk factors, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise can help decrease your risk. Additionally, if you have several of these factors which place you at increased risk of breast cancer, you may qualify for supplementary breast screening exams such as a breast MRI. Talk to your primary care physician about your breast health and risk factors.

Finally, discuss any changes you notice in your breasts including new lumps, nipple discharge or skin changes with your primary physician as additional testing or imaging may be necessary. Ascension Seton Williamson recently launched its breast surgery program in May 2020. Featuring surgeons Dr. Joseph Jeanette and Dr. Nancy Marquez and breast imaging specialist Dr. Jamie Callas, the program offers advanced imaging and surgical procedures to meet the community's needs for breast care. Additionally, the program features a new and innovative technology, SAVI Scout, to treat individuals diagnosed with breast cancer. This state of the art surgical guidance system enables the surgical team to more accurately pinpoint tumors prior to surgery and enhances surgical success in the removal of targeted breast tumors.

Regular cancer screening is still important, even amidst the pandemic. Ascension Seton continues to follow safety protocols to stop the spread of the virus, including visitor restrictions, social distancing measures, universal masking and virtual visits and consultations. Do not delay annual screenings, as early detection is critically important to the best breast cancer outcomes.