breast cancer awareness month - Uncas Health District

Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) is associated with potentially harmful mutations in breast cancer susceptibility genes (BRCA1 and BRCA2), and sometimes mutations in other genes. About 50 out of 100 women with a BRCA gene mutation will get breast cancer by the time they turn 70 years old, compared to only 7 out of 100 women in the general United States population. [Source: CDC website]

The importance of knowing and sharing your Family Health History.

Your family health history is a record of diseases and conditions that run in your family, especially among close relatives. A family history of breast and ovarian cancers can increase a woman’s risk for developing cancer.

You may share similar genes, habits, and environments that can affect your cancer risk. Learning about and sharing your health history with your family and telling your doctor about your family's health history are important.

Not only does knowing your family health help you identify risk, but knowing your family history also helps you and your doctor decide if genetic counseling or genetic testing may be right for you. Even if genetic counseling and testing are not recommended for you, everyone needs to know their family history.

Knowing your family health history may also help you identify risk for other common diseases, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes or heart disease!

Web Resources to Learn About Hereditary Cancer

Visit the DPH Genomics webpage for more information and to download a Family Health History Workbook.
Learn about family health history and how it affects cancer risk, a CDC resource webpage.
Complete an online family health history using a web-based tool provided by the Surgeon General’s Office.
The American Cancer Society has information on Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome (HBOC) on its website.

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Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2024: The Importance of Screening and Early Detection

Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting women in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), it is projected that 310,720 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2024, and 42,500 women are expected to die from the disease.

While these numbers are concerning, there is good news: early detection plays a critical role in improving survival rates. When breast cancer is detected early, is in the localized stage, and treated promptly, the five-year survival rate is 99%. This underscores the vital importance of regular breast cancer screenings.

Why is Breast Cancer Screening Important?

Breast cancer screening tests, such as mammograms, can detect the disease before symptoms develop, when the cancer is often smaller and has not spread. This early detection makes treatment more effective, less invasive, and can significantly improve outcomes.

For many women, timely screening could be the difference between a manageable condition and a more complicated diagnosis.

Who Should Get Screened?

The ACS recommends that women at average risk of breast cancer start receiving annual mammograms at age 40. Women considered at higher risk—such as those with a family history of breast cancer, certain genetic mutations (like BRCA1 or BRCA2), or other risk factors—may need to begin screenings earlier. It’s important to discuss your personal risk factors with your doctor.

How Often Should I Get Screened?

Most women should have a mammogram every year, according to the ACS guidelines. However, depending on your risk profile, your doctor may recommend a more frequent screening schedule or additional tests such as breast MRIs. Staying consistent with screening is essential for catching any potential issues early.

What Should I Do If I Find a Lump in My Breast?

If you detect a lump or notice any changes in your breasts, it’s crucial to see a healthcare provider promptly. While many breast lumps are not cancerous, only a professional evaluation can determine the cause and recommend the appropriate next steps.

How Can I Support Breast Cancer Awareness Month?

There are many ways you can get involved and help raise awareness:

Get screened for breast cancer, and encourage others to do the same.
Share information about the importance of screening with friends and family.
Donate to breast cancer research or organizations that provide support to patients and survivors.
Volunteer your time to local cancer charities or support groups.

By taking these steps, you can contribute to ongoing efforts to reduce breast cancer mortality and support those impacted by the disease.

More Facts About Breast Cancer