Detecting Breast Cancer Early: The Importance of Regular Breast Cancer Screenings

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, except for skin cancers. It accounts for about 30% (or 1 in 3) of all new female cancers each year. While that number may sound daunting, there's a silver lining: death rates have been steadily declining due to increased awareness and routine screening.

Our understanding of breast health has evolved. We now know that early stage breast cancer is often undetectable on self or clinical exam.

The most important thing you can do for your breast health is:

1. Understand your personal and family risk factors.
2. Talk to your healthcare providers about what type of screening is best for you and when to start. This includes mammograms, but could also include other types of imaging and genetic testing.

Risk Factors You Can Control

Certain lifestyle habits can impact your breast cancer risk. Here are key factors you can modify:

• Physical inactivity: Regular exercise reduces risk.
• Alcohol consumption: Limit intake to no more than 1 drink per day.
• Smoking: Avoid tobacco entirely.
• Obesity, especially post-menopause: Maintain a healthy weight through diet and movement.
• Hormonal therapy (postmenopausal): Use only under a provider's guidance.

Making small, sustainable lifestyle changes can lower your risk and improve your overall health.

Risk Factors You Can't Control

Some factors are beyond your control—but knowing them can help guide your screening plan:

• Age: Most cases are diagnosed in women over 50.
• Genetics: Inherited mutations, like BRCA1 or BRCA2, significantly increase risk.
• Family history: First-degree relatives with breast cancer, especially at a young age.
• Dense breast tissue: Makes tumors harder to detect with mammograms.
• Menstrual history: Early periods (before 12) or late menopause (after 55) increase exposure to estrogen, which can elevate risk.

Awareness of these factors helps you and your provider make informed decisions about screenings and preventive strategies.

Preventive Strategies: Partnering with Your Provider

Being proactive with your breast health means partnering with your provider to create a custom plan.

Here's how to get started:

• Annual wellness exams: These help track overall health and risk factors.
• Healthy lifestyle choices: Stay active, eat well, and avoid smoking.
• Know your family history: Share it with your provider to assess your risk and refine your screening timeline.
• Genetic counseling: If you have a strong family history, consider talking to a specialist.

Breast Cancer Screening Recommendations: What do the Experts Say?

Experts recommend starting routine screening by age 40, though the suggested frequency varies:

• The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends screening mammograms every two years beginning at age 40.
• The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends annual mammograms starting at age 40.

Regardless of the baseline schedule, individuals with risk factors—such as dense breast tissue or a strong family history—may require more intensive screening, including a breast ultrasound, MRI, or genetic testing.

Creating Your Prevention Plan: Put Awareness Into Action

Your annual check-up is the best place to start your breast health plan.

• Book your annual wellness exam.
• Stay up to date with mammograms or other imaging.
• Talk to your provider about your personal risk and screening plan.