It’s a pink-out in the month of October. That’s when we celebrate National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer effects nearly 30,000 women every year. But the average age a woman may develop breast cancer is 62, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. The American Cancer Society (ACS) contributes several risk factors that may cause breast cancer, including age, because the older we are, the more likely it is for our cells to mutate. This is something, we unfortunately, cannot change, but there are ways to prevent it.

Developments in treatment and screenings have improved survival rates and outcomes. While the progress is optimistic, researchers are still working around the clock to minimize reoccurrence and encourage early intervention and give every woman hope during her battle.

The signs

Recognizing the signs of breast cancer is key to early detection. It’s important to pay attention to your body and see your doctor right away if you experience any of these symptoms:

A new lump or mass

Aging can cause changes in breast tissue, often times impacting the density. Not all lumps or masses found in the breasts are cancerous, but it is still important to check in with your doctor to rule out breast cancer.

Typically, a cancerous mass in the breast will feel hard, painful and cause discomfort.

 

Nipple changes

Pay attention to your nipples. You should consult with your doctor if you notice your nipple(s) are turned inward or has discharge (especially if it is bloody). In people over the age of 50, the risk of cancer increases if the discharge occurs alongside a lump.

Also take note of any flaky, dry or thickened skin around the nipple or areola, as this could be a sign of Paget’s disease of the nipple.

 

Breast pain or discomfort

Pain is the body’s was of telling you something is wrong. Breast pain can be caused by several things, including hormonal changes, but persistent pain or unexplained pain can be a sign of breast cancer. While this isn’t a common symptom, it is still worth going to the doctor.

 

Checking for breast cancer

The ACS does not recommend self-exams or regular clinical exams as part of a routine to monitor for breast cancer. This is based off of the fact their is little evidence to suggest these tests help find breast cancer early when women also get screening mammograms. But this doesn’t mean that these exams should never be done, especially for women at a higher-than-average risk.

There are ways older people can perform self-exams regardless so they can stay in touch with their health and get to the doctor when needed.

Stand in front of a well-lit mirror to check for any changes in size, shape or symmetry. Pay attention to any dimpling, puckering or discoloration you may not have noticed before.

To perform a breast exam on yourself, raise up one arm and take two fingers to feel around the breast and underarms for any changes in skin texture. Then, use a firm touch to feel for any lumps, thickening or changes in texture in the breast tissue.

Mammograms

ACS recommends women should start getting mammograms every year beginning at the age of 45, though, ACS also says women should have the option to begin annual screenings at the age of 40.

Upstate University Hospital Mobile Mammography

Upstate University makes it easy for women to get screenings that could save their lives. It’s Mobile Mammography Van regularly travels around CNY to provide screenings for women 40 years and older.

You’re eligible to use the van if:

• You haven’t had a mammogram in the past year
• You show no signs or symptoms of breast cancer

You can find where the van is going next and to learn more by visiting their website. Call and make an appointment by phone at 315-464-2588. Appointments are open to both insured and noninsured women!