Breast Cancer.
Aside from skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States. Chances are, you know and love someone who has been affected by breast cancer. When it comes to breast cancer survival, we know that early detection is key.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and Mercy Hospital shares recommendations for routine self-exams and mammograms:
According to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists (ACOG):
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- Women ages 40 to 74 should get mammograms every year.
- Women 75 and older should continue to get screened if they are in good health.
If you have a family history of breast cancer, you should start annual screening mammograms before you reach age 40.
Not all women experience symptoms, but it’s important to be aware of these warning signs that can be associated with breast cancer:
- a new lump in the breast or armpit
- thick or swollen breasts
- irritated or dimpled breast skin
- red or flaky skin on the breast or nipple
- nipple pain or inverted nipple
- nipple discharge other than breastmilk (including blood)
- changes in breast size or shape, or pain anywhere in the breast
Take a look at how our partners at Mercy Hospital make it easy to schedule mammograms online at MyMercy:
