October Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Early Detection Saves Lives

Photo: FDA

From Dr. Tushar B. Patel, New Jersey

October is observed as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to remind women—especially those age 40 and above—to speak with their medical providers about baseline breast cancer screening. Early detection through regular screening can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival.

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably. The disease can start in different parts of the breast—most commonly in the ducts (which carry milk to the nipple) or the lobules (which produce milk). The breast also contains connective tissue, which supports and holds everything together. When cancer spreads beyond the breast through blood or lymph vessels, it is said to have metastasized.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, aside from skin cancers, accounting for about 30% (or 1 in 3) of all new female cancers each year.

The American Cancer Society estimates for breast cancer in the United States for 2025 are:

• About 316,950 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women.
• About 59,080 new cases of ductal carcinoma in situ will be diagnosed.
• About 42,170 women will die from breast cancer.

Breast cancer mainly occurs in middle-aged and older women. The median age at diagnosis is 62, meaning half of the women diagnosed are 62 or younger. Only a small number of women diagnosed are under 45.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Symptoms vary from person to person, and some people may not have any symptoms at all. Common warning signs include:

• A new lump in the breast or underarm
• Swelling or thickening of part of the breast
• Irritation or dimpling of the breast skin
• Redness or flaky skin around the nipple or breast
• Pulling in of the nipple or nipple pain
• Nipple discharge (other than breast milk), including blood
• Change in breast size or shape
• Pain in any area of the breast

These symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions. However, if you notice any of these signs, see your healthcare provider right away.

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

Factors You Cannot Change:

• Age: Risk increases with age; most cases are diagnosed after 50.
• Genetics: Inherited mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2.
• Reproductive history: Early menstruation (before 12) or late menopause (after 55).
• Dense breasts: Make tumors harder to detect and increase risk.
• Family history: Having a close relative with breast or ovarian cancer.
• Prior radiation therapy: Especially to the chest before age 30.
• DES exposure: Women who took diethylstilbestrol (DES) or whose mothers did.

Factors You Can Change:

• Lack of physical activity
• Being overweight or obese after menopause
• Long-term use of hormone therapy or birth control pills
• Having a first pregnancy after age 30 or not breastfeeding
• Drinking alcohol
• Smoking or long-term exposure to certain chemicals

Reducing Your Risk:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly
• Limit or avoid alcohol
• Talk to your doctor before using hormone therapy
• Breastfeed if possible
• Discuss preventive strategies with your provider if you have a family or genetic risk

Breast Cancer Screening Recommendations

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends:

• Women ages 50–74 at average risk should get a mammogram every two years.
• Women ages 40–49 should talk to their healthcare provider about when to start and how often to get screened, based on individual risks and preferences.

Most health insurance plans cover screening mammograms every one to two years for women starting at age 40 with no out-of-pocket cost. For uninsured individuals, many states offer free or low-cost cancer screening programs—contact your local health department for details.

Breast Cancer Screening Tests

• Mammogram: The most effective way to detect breast cancer early.
• Breast MRI: Used along with mammograms for women at high risk.
• Clinical Breast Exam: A doctor or nurse checks for lumps or changes.
• Breast Self-Awareness: Knowing how your breasts normally look and feel helps you notice changes early.

If a mammogram is abnormal, it doesn’t always mean cancer. Further tests such as diagnostic mammograms, ultrasounds, MRIs, or biopsies may be needed to confirm a diagnosis.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer and often involves a combination of approaches:

• Surgery – Removal of cancerous tissue
• Chemotherapy – Medications to kill or shrink cancer cells
• Hormonal therapy – Blocks hormones that fuel certain cancers
• Radiation therapy – High-energy rays to destroy cancer cells
• Biological therapy – Helps the immune system fight cancer

Doctors from different specialties—surgeons, oncologists, and radiation experts—work together to create a personalized treatment plan. Always discuss risks, benefits, and possible side effects with your care team.

Final Thought

Early detection saves lives. Regular screening, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and paying attention to any changes in your breasts can make a life-changing difference. This October, talk to your doctor about your breast health and encourage others to do the same. If you are insured or underinsured, reach out to your local, county, or state health departments to access screening resources at minimal or no cost.