Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Did you know that one in eight women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime? That’s 246,000 women who will be diagnosed in the U.S. annually, and 40,000 who will die from breast cancer.
The good news? Knowing your risk and getting the right screenings can help you protect your breast health.
Common risk-factors for breast cancer include:
· Genetics, and
· Personal history.
By age 40, women should begin receiving annual mammograms, but it’s never too early to talk with your OBGYN or primary care physician about your risk of developing breast cancer.
Follow these recommendations to stay on top of your breast health.
· Know your risk factors and talk to your doctor about them.
· Conduct monthly self-breast exams starting at age 20
· Get annual mammograms beginning at age 40
Women with a family history of cancer or a personal history of other health conditions may need to begin getting mammograms earlier. You should consult your OBGYN or primary care doctor about your risk factors and the appropriate screenings for you.
This October, learn your risk for breast cancer by visiting Adventist HealthCare’s free breast cancer risk assessment at www.YourBreastHealth.com.