October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual international health campaign meant to educate people of all sexes and genders about the prevalence and prevention of breast cancer.
To support awareness and education around breast cancer, Dana, our Lead Nurse Practitioner, answered some common questions we get:
1. What are some signs of breast cancer that people should be aware of?
The most common sign is a NEW breast lump or mass. In those who are having periods, the mass would always be there no matter where you are in your menstrual cycle. In those who are breastfeeding, the mass would not increase and decrease in size with breastfeeding. The lump would be on one side and feel like it is stuck or hard to move. It is also important to watch out for nipple discharge that is not caused by lactation, skin changes such as orange peel or red and flaky thick skin, nipple inversion, and dimpling of the breast tissue.
2. What should you do if you notice a change with your breast(s)?
Call us! The best thing to do is come in for a breast exam. Also, monitor your symptoms: does anything make it change in size? Where are you in your cycle? Etc. Last, don't panic until we know more, which is hard!
3. What are some things you would recommend to help people reduce their risk of breast cancer?
- Come for your yearly annual gyn appointments, where we do a breast exam each year.
- Eat a healthy diet full of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and do 150 minutes of moderate cardiovascular exercise weekly.
- Get to know your own breasts so that you can notice something different if it happens.
- Start breast imaging at age 40 if you are not at high risk.
- Find out your family breast cancer history so that if there is a history, together we can figure out how to best care for you and your breast health, which may include referrals to specialists.
Dana and our other providers are here to help you understand your breast cancer risk, address concerns, provide breast exams, and give referrals for mammograms and other diagnostic screenings. Give us a call at 412.321.6880 to schedule an appointment.
Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice.