Central Peninsula | Fall 2021

You’ve probably heard or read the sta- tistic by now: About 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime. Treatments work best when breast cancer is caught early. That’s why it’s important to get screened regularly for the disease if you’re 45 or older. But it’s equally as important to know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer at any age, since even younger women can—and do—get the disease. Be on the lookout—and speak up Any changes to the look or feel of your breasts shouldn’t be ignored. Chances are, something other than cancer is the cause. But it’s always best to let your primary care provider know if you’re having any of the following possible signs or symptoms of breast cancer: ● A lump or thickening in or near a breast or in the underarm area. ● A change in the size or shape of a breast. ● A dimple or puckering in the skin of a breast. ● A nipple that has turned inward or a sore near the nipple. ● Fluid, other than breast milk, leaking from a nipple, especially if the fluid is bloody or leaks from only one breast. ● Skin irritation or changes—such as puckering, dimpling, scaliness or new creases—anywhere on a breast, nipple or areola (the dark area of skin around the nipple). ● Dimples in a breast that look like the skin of an orange. ● Pain in a breast, especially if the pain doesn’t go away. Your provider will ask you how long and how often you’ve been experiencing these signs and symptoms. They’ll also examine your breasts. And, if necessary, they may take a sample of your blood and order tests like a mammogram, an ultrasound or a breast MRI. You may need a biopsy if results of those tests suggest something suspicious. The thought of having breast cancer can be scary. But try to remem- ber that other conditions can cause changes to your breasts. That’s why it’s always best to see your provider and get a diagnosis. Sources: American Cancer Society; American Society of Clinical Oncology; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; National Cancer Institute Ready to schedule a mammogram? Call 907-714-4604 today. Is it breast cancer? Know the possible signs and symptoms Getting mammograms as recommended is one of the best ways to find breast cancer early, when it’s often easier to treat. These suggestions from the American Cancer Society can help ensure a more comfortable and smooth process. Get ready, get set, get a mammogram Try to use the same mammogram facility every time you get the test. This will make it easier to compare breast images from previous years. If you are visiting a new mammogram facility, have the clinic that did your previous mammograms send your records to the new facility. Be sure to tell your health care provider about any breast changes or problems you’ve had before getting the mammogram. Also alert the technologist doing your mammogram to any breast changes you’ve had, and describe any medical history that could affect your breast cancer risk, such as hormone use or a previous breast cancer. Try to avoid scheduling your mammogram for the week before your period, when breasts are often swollen and tender. Avoid wearing deodorant or antiperspirant at your appointment. Substances they contain may appear as white spots on the x-rays. Consider wearing a skirt or pants so you’ll only have to remove your shirt and bra. (You’ll need to undress from the waist up for the mammogram.) PULSE Fall 2021 5