October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Adapted from information from Susan G. Komen
If you notice any of these changes, please report them to your doctor:
- Lumps, hard knots, or thickening inside the breast or underarm area
- Swelling, warmth, redness, or darkening of the breast
- Changes in the size and shape of the breast
- Dimpling or puckering of the breast
- 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 does not go away
Know if You’re at Risk
- Talk with both sides of your family to learn if breast cancer has appeared in your family health history.
- Talk with your doctor to determine if you’re at risk for breast cancer.
Get a Screening
- If you’re at a higher risk for breast cancer, speak with your doctor to see which screening tests are the right ones for you.
- According to National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines, it is wise to have a mammogram every year from age 40 onward if you’re at average risk.
Know What Your Normal Looks Like
- Make sure you know what your body normally looks and feels like. Any changes out of the ordinary can be early warning signs of cancer.
Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices
- Taking steps to keep yourself healthy can be very important in preventing and treating breast cancer.
- Maintain a healthy weight for your body type.
- Incorporate exercise and natural movement into your daily routines.
- Keep your alcohol intake to a minimum.
- Limit the amount of menopausal hormones you use.
- If possible for your circumstances, breastfeed your children when they’re newborns.
Learn More:
- National Breast Cancer Foundation: nationalbreastcancer.org/resources
- Susan G. Komen: visit komen.org or call the Komen Patient Care Center’s Breast Care Helpline at 1-877-465-6636
- Centers for Disease Control: cdc.gov/cancer/features/breast-cancer.html
