Other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women. Getting mammograms regularly can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer. The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends that if you are 50 to 74 years old, be sure to have a screening mammogram every two years. If you are 40 to 49 years old, talk to your doctor about when to start and how often to get a screening mammogram.
There are different symptoms of breast cancer, and some people have no symptoms at all. Symptoms can include:
If you have any signs that worry you, see your doctor right away.
Some main factors that influence your risk for breast cancer include:
Most women who get breast cancer have no known risk factors and no history of the disease in their families.
There are things you can do to help lower your breast cancer risk. Although breast cancer screening cannot prevent breast cancer, it can help find breast cancer early when it is easier to treat. Talk to your doctor about which breast cancer screening tests are right for you and when you should have them.
Most breast cancers are found in women who are 50 years old or older, but breast cancer also affects younger women. About 10% of all new cases of breast cancer in the United States are found in women younger than 45 years of age.
To schedule an appointment at Lane OB/GYN, call 225-658-1303.