Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Early Detection, Patient Support, and Hope

Every October, the world comes together for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to honor survivors, support patients, and raise awareness about the importance of early detection and treatment. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women worldwide, but thanks to research, innovation, and increased awareness, survival rates continue to improve.

Why Breast Cancer Awareness Matters

• 1 in 8 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.

• Early detection through mammograms and regular screenings can significantly improve outcomes.

• Awareness campaigns empower individuals to take charge of their health and encourage loved ones to do the same.

Signs and Symptoms to Know

Breast cancer growth is caused by the replication of damaged cells. The lymph system and blood vessels spread these damaged cells to other parts of the body, amplified by hormones and chemicals in your body like estrogen, progesterone, and HER2/neu gene (growth hormone). Consequently, this aggressive cell growth forms a tumor and progresses into breast cancer. 

While not all breast cancers present obvious signs, being aware of changes in your body is key. If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment to speak with your doctor or care team. Common symptoms include:

• A lump in the breast or underarm

• Swelling or thickening of breast tissue

• Changes in breast size or shape

• Skin dimpling or irritation

• Nipple discharge or pain

Risk Factors

Knowing that breast cancer is caused by the spread and mutation of damaged cells, genetic or environmental and lifestyle factors or a combination may all be contributing factors associated with the disease. 

Genetic Factors

• Gender: Occurs 100x more often in women than in men

• Age: After the age 55, 2 out of 3 women are diagnosed with breast cancer

• Race: Commonly diagnosed in Caucasian women

• Family Medical & Genetic History: Family history of mother, father, sister, or child with breast or ovarian cancer, increases risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer in the future

• Personal Health History: Previous diagnosis of breast cancer in one breast, increases risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer in other breast in the future. Risk also increases if previously detected with abnormal breast cells (e.g. atypical hyperplasia, LCIS, DCIS)

• Menstrual & Reproductive History: Increased risk for breast cancer if you have a history of early menstruation (before age 12), late menopause (after age 55), having first child at an older age, or never giving birth

• Genetic Mutations:  Mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes increases risk for breast cancer, which can be determined through a genetic test

• Dense Breast Tissue: Increased difficulty in detecting lumps in breast tissue, increases risk for breast cancer

Environmental & Lifestyle Factors

• Sedentary Lifestyle: Little to no physical activity can increase risk for breast cancer

• Poor Diet: High saturated fat diet, lacking in fruits and vegetables increases risk for breast cancer. Lower risk factor by eating between 3-5 cups of fruits and vegetables per day

• Weight: Obesity or being overweight increases chances of breast cancer, especially if you already gone through menopause

• Drinking Alcohol: Frequent consumption of alcohol increases risk of breast cancer

• Radiation: Radiation therapy to chest before the age of 30 increases risk for breast cancer

• Combined Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): While usually prescribed for menopause, combined HRT increases breast cancer risk and risk of detection of late-stage cancer

The Role of Early Detection

Regular screenings save lives. The American Cancer Society reports that early detection or diagnosis of breast cancer during its localized stage has a five-year relative survival rate of 99%. Women over 40 are encouraged to talk with their doctors about mammogram schedules, while those with a family history of breast cancer may need earlier or more frequent screenings. Self-exams, while not a replacement for clinical screenings, help women stay in tune with their bodies as a useful early detection tool to check for signs and symptoms of breast cancer. 

Treatment

Most treatment options for breast cancer fall into the following five categories: 

• Surgery

• Chemotherapy

• Radiation therapy

• Hormone therapy

• Targeted therapy

These treatment plans focus on local areas around the tumor, while other forms of treatment are systemic and target the entire body with cancer fighting agents. It is also important to note that side effects may occur depending on treatment and personal medical history. 

Supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month

You can make a difference this October by:

• Wearing pink to show support

• Sharing educational resources on social media

• Donating to research organizations funding new treatments

• Supporting survivors and patients in your community

Hope for the Future

Thanks to advances in targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and patient-centered care, breast cancer treatment is becoming more effective and personalized. With continued awareness and support, the fight against breast cancer grows stronger every year.

At Wave Health, we believe technology and compassion can transform cancer care. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, join us in taking action: schedule a screening, share information with others, or explore tools that help patients feel heard and supported. Together, we can save lives and bring hope to millions.

Source: National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.