Breast Cancer Awareness: The Importance of Regular Screenings
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of early detection in the fight against breast cancer. Our East Tennessee Premier Surgical Breast Cancer Team of surgeons, is committed to empowering our patients with knowledge about the role of regular breast cancer screenings in saving lives. Early detection is key, and routine screenings are one of the most effective ways to catch breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages.
Understanding Breast Cancer
Breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. While some risk factors for breast cancer—like age, family history, and genetics—cannot be controlled, there are powerful steps you can take to reduce your risk and detect cancer early.
According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer in her lifetime, but early detection through regular screenings can significantly increase survival rates.
Why Regular Screenings Matter
The goal of breast cancer screening is to find cancer before it causes symptoms, such as a lump, changes in breast size or shape, or nipple discharge. When breast cancer is found early, treatment options are broader, and outcomes are generally much better. Regular screenings are vital because:
- Early Detection Saves Lives: Detecting breast cancer early, before it has spread to other parts of the body, increases the likelihood of successful treatment. Early-stage breast cancer is much easier to treat than advanced cancer, and the survival rate for localized breast cancer is around 99%.
- Screening Can Catch Cancer Before Symptoms Appear: By the time symptoms of breast cancer arise, the cancer may have already progressed to a more advanced stage. Mammograms, which are the most common screening tool, can detect tumors too small to be felt, often years before physical symptoms appear.
- Improved Treatment Options: Early detection often allows for less invasive treatments and increases the chance that breast-conserving surgery, like a lumpectomy, will be possible. For many women, this means shorter recovery times and less disruption to daily life.
Who Should Get Screened?
The frequency of screenings depends on a few factors, including your age, medical history, and risk factors. The American Cancer Society recommends the following guidelines for women at average risk for breast cancer:
– Women aged 40-44: Optional annual mammograms.
– Women aged 45-54: Annual mammograms.
– Women 55 and older: Mammograms every two years, or the option to continue with yearly screenings.
For women with higher risk factors, such as a family history of breast cancer or certain genetic mutations, screenings may begin earlier or occur more frequently. It’s important to discuss your individual risk factors with your healthcare provider to determine the best screening schedule for you.
The Role of the Premier Surgical Breast Team
At Premier Surgical Associates, we understand that navigating breast cancer screenings can feel overwhelming. Our dedicated team of surgical specialists is here to provide you with compassionate, personalized care throughout the breast cancer diagnosis, treatment and reconstruction stages. We will ensure that you receive the highest quality care at every step of the way.
For more information about about our experienced Premier Surgical breast cancer specialists, please visit: https://www.premiersurgical.com/specialties/breast-cancer-surgery/.