October is…

Breast Cancer Awareness Month:

As we move into Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let us come together to raise awareness, encourage early detection, and show compassion to everyone whose life has been touched by breast cancer. Breast cancer can affect both women and men, and behind every diagnosis is a person, a family, and a story.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women, and early detection through regular screening can save lives. Mammograms can detect breast cancer before symptoms appear, when it may be easier to treat.

Prioritize Screening: Women should talk with their healthcare provider about when to begin mammograms and how often they should be screened based on their age, family history, personal risk, and overall health. For women at average risk, current guidelines recommend beginning mammography screening between ages 40–45, depending on the guideline and individual preference.

Know Your Body: Be familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel. Report any new or persistent changes—including a lump, swelling, change in breast size or shape, skin changes, nipple changes, or unusual discharge—to your healthcare provider promptly.

Know Your Risk: Breast cancer risk increases with age, and factors such as family history and inherited gene mutations, including BRCA1 and BRCA2, can increase risk. If you have a higher-than-average risk, talk with your healthcare provider about whether you need earlier or additional screening.

Breast Cancer Can Affect Men, Too: Although breast cancer occurs far more often in women, men can develop breast cancer and should report unusual breast or nipple changes to a healthcare provider.

Beginning in October, please visit the resource table for educational materials and additional information on breast cancer prevention, screening, early detection, and available resources. This October, let’s move beyond awareness to action.