Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women in the United States, after skin cancer.
Although breast cancer can occur in men, the likelihood is exceptionally rare. Roughly, 1 in 8 women will
be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. In honor of October being Breast Cancer Awareness
Month, it is beneficial to know common risk factors, associated signs and symptoms, and how to
properly perform a self-breast examination to promote early detection.
Risk Factors:
Family history of breast cancer
Being a female
Increasing age
Inherited genes (well-known gene mutations associated: BRCA1 and BRCA2)
Obesity
Menstruation before age 12
Postmenopausal hormone therapy
Signs and symptoms of breast cancer may include:
A lump in breast or thickening that feels different from surrounding tissue
Newly inverted nipple
Redness or pitting of skin over your breast
Discharge at nipple
Breast changes including size, shape, or appearance
Breast cancer diagnosis:
Mammogram: An x-ray of breast that is commonly used to screen for breast cancer
Biopsy: Use of a needle device that is guided by x-ray to extract sample of breast cells
Breast ultrasound
MRI
If any of these changes arise, please consult with your doctor as soon as possible. Remember, early
detection can save lives!
Written by: Dr. TaLisa Cummings-Taylor PT, DPT
