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National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Date: 10/22/21

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and in the United States 1 in 8 women are diagnosed with breast cancer.  Breast cancer screenings and early detection are important tools in successfully treating breast cancer. Review the list of screenings recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for early detection.

Mammogram

A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. For many women, mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat and before it is big enough to feel or cause symptoms. Having regular mammograms can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer. At this time, a mammogram is the best way to find breast cancer for most women of screening age.

Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

A breast MRI uses magnets and radio waves to take pictures of the breast. Breast MRI is used along with mammograms to screen women who are at high risk for getting breast cancer. Because breast MRIs may appear abnormal even when there is no cancer, they are not used for women at average risk.

Other Exams

  • Clinical Breast Exam: A clinical breast exam is an examination by a doctor or nurse, who uses his or her hands to feel for lumps or other changes.
  • Breast Self-Awareness: Being familiar with how your breasts look and feel can help you notice symptoms such as lumps, pain, or changes in size that may be of concern. These could include changes found during a breast self-exam. You should report any changes that you notice to your doctor or health care provider. Having a clinical breast exam or doing a breast self-exam has not been found to lower the risk of dying from breast cancer.

To learn more about breast cancer and other health topics, visit Superior HealthPlan’s Health & Wellness webpage.