The Importance of Breast Cancer Awareness, Self-Exams, and Annual Check-Ups

October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but the need for awareness and proactive care doesn’t stop once the month ends. For many women, the journey to understanding their breast health starts with education, which is crucial for catching breast cancer early and saving lives. Early detection is vital, and empowering women to take charge of their health through self-exams and annual check-ups is an essential part of that journey.

The Facts

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women worldwide. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2024, about 297,790 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in the United States, and about 43,170 women will die from the disease. However, survival rates have dramatically improved due to early detection and advancements in treatment.

Why Self-Exams Are Important

A breast self-exam (BSE) is a simple, cost-free method that can be performed at home to check for lumps, changes in shape, or other irregularities. While it’s not a substitute for mammograms or professional exams, it’s a significant first step in knowing what is normal for your body and noticing any changes early on.

How to Perform a Self-Exam:

1. Look: Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and hands on your hips. Look for any visible changes in size, shape, or symmetry, and check for dimpling, puckering, or changes in the skin.

2. Feel: Use the pads of your three middle fingers to check for lumps or thickened tissue, moving in circular motions from the outer part of the breast inward. Check while standing up and lying down to ensure thorough coverage.

3. Be Consistent: Choose a specific time of the month, ideally after your period, to perform the exam when your breasts are less likely to be tender or swollen.

Tip: If you notice any changes, such as a new lump, thickening, discharge from the nipple, or skin dimpling, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Many breast changes are benign, but only a medical professional can help you determine that.

The Role of Annual Check-Ups

Annual mammograms and clinical breast exams a healthcare provider performs are critical for early detection. As we age, the risk of breast cancer increases, making regular mammograms an important tool, especially for women over 40 or those with a family history of the disease.

Even if no changes are detected through self-exams, healthcare professionals can catch signs of breast cancer through diagnostic tools like mammograms, ultrasounds, or MRIs. These screenings can detect cancers that are too small to feel, significantly improving treatment outcomes.

Overcoming Fear and Anxiety

The idea of performing self-exams or going for mammograms can feel intimidating, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer. But empowering yourself with knowledge and action is a powerful way to take control of your health. Early detection saves lives, and understanding what’s normal for your body can help you spot anything unusual as soon as it happens.

Many women experience fear around mammograms due to concerns about discomfort or potential bad news, but mammograms are quick, generally well-tolerated, and essential. Open communication with your doctor about your concerns can help alleviate anxiety.

Genetic Testing and Family History

Some women have a higher risk of developing breast cancer due to genetic factors. If you have a family history of breast cancer, particularly in close relatives, discuss your risk factors with your doctor. Genetic testing can identify mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, which increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer. For high-risk individuals, additional screenings or preventive measures may be recommended.

Support and Community

Breast cancer awareness also means supporting those affected by it. Whether you know someone undergoing treatment or are passionate about raising awareness, involvement in community events, support groups, or advocacy efforts can make a big difference. Every voice helps spread the message of early detection and treatment.

Empower Yourself

Breast cancer is a personal and collective battle, and the best defense is early detection. Regularly performing self-exams and keeping up with annual check-ups give you the best chance for early intervention. Empower yourself with knowledge, take control of your health, and encourage other women to do the same.

Early detection saves lives. Be proactive, be informed, and be your own best advocate.

With Love and gratitude,

Luisa Rios-Sierra.