Breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women after skin cancer. Mammograms remain the most effective way to detect breast cancer early, often before symptoms appear or lumps can be felt.
Screening and Cost Assistance
Women are encouraged to ask their doctors when they should begin regular mammogram screenings. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program provides free or low-cost mammograms for women with low incomes who are uninsured or underinsured.
Symptoms
Breast cancer symptoms vary and some individuals may not experience any. Possible signs include:
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Pain in any part of the breast
- Nipple discharge not related to breast milk, including blood
- A new lump in the breast or underarm
Anyone experiencing these symptoms should consult a doctor promptly.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for breast cancer include:
- Being female
- Being age 50 or older
- Having inherited BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations
Reducing Risk
Ways to lower breast cancer risk include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight and staying physically active
- Limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption
- Consulting a doctor about the risks of hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills
- Breastfeeding, if possible
Statistics
Each year, about 270,000 women in the U.S. are diagnosed with breast cancer, and approximately 42,000 women die from the disease. While breast cancer is rare in men, about 1 in 100 cases occurs in males. Most diagnoses occur in women aged 50 and older, though younger women can also be affected.
Additional Resources
The CDC offers educational materials on topics such as dense breasts, genetic cancer risks, and stories from young women impacted by breast cancer through its Bring Your Brave campaign.
More information is available on the CDC’s website.
