By Sharon McIntyre, Naval Hospital Oak Harbor Public Affairs Officer
Breast cancer forms in the tissues of the breast, usually in the ducts that carry milk to the nipple and glands that produce milk. Breast cancer is more common in women, however, men can also be diagnosed with this type of cancer.
The good news is that a mammogram can help your provider detect breast cancer early — often one to three years before a lump is big enough to be felt during self-breast exams. Your best defense against breast cancer is to schedule a mammogram on a regular basis, perform monthly self-examinations and recommended routine examinations by your provider.
All women are at risk for breast cancer. It is the one of the most common cancers in women of all major racial and ethnic groups in the United States. Women who are 40 years of age and older are encouraged to have a mammogram performed annually. By getting regular mammograms, the cancer is found early when treatment is most effective and many women go on to live long and healthy lives.
To lower your risk of getting breast cancer:
Stay physically active.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Avoid using hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or find out the risks and benefits of HRT and if it is right for you.
Limit the amount of alcohol intake.
If you are 40 years of age or older and have not had a mammogram in the past year, make an appointment with your provider for a well woman’s exam today!
And remember early detection is key to beating breast cancer!
