10 Common Questions About Breast Cancer Answered

What are the early signs of breast cancer?

The early signs of breast cancer can vary, but the most common ones include:

• A lump in the breast or underarm
• Changes in the size or shape of the breast
• Nipple discharge (not related to breastfeeding)
• Dimpling or puckering of the skin
• Redness or flakiness of the nipple or breast skin

It’s important to remember that not all lumps or changes mean cancer, but you should see a doctor for an evaluation if you notice anything unusual.

Who is most at risk of developing breast cancer?

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, breast cancer risk factors can be divided into two categories: genetic (factors you can’t change) and environmental/lifestyle (factors you can change):

Genetic risk factors

• Gender: Breast cancer occurs nearly 100 times more often in women than in men.
• Age: Most breast cancer cases occur in women over 55.
• Race: Breast cancer is more commonly diagnosed in Caucasian women than in women of other races.
• Family history and genetic factors: If a close relative, such as your mother, sister, or father, has been diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer, especially before age 50, your risk increases. Mutations in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 can significantly raise risk as well.
• Personal health history: If you've had breast cancer before, you’re at higher risk of developing it again. Having certain non-cancerous breast conditions, like atypical hyperplasia, also raises the risk.
• Reproductive history: Early menstruation (before age 12), late menopause (after age 55), having your first child after 30, or never giving birth can increase your risk.
• Dense breast tissue: Having dense breasts makes it harder to detect lumps and is linked to a higher risk of breast cancer.

Environmental and lifestyle risk factors

• Lack of physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle can increase your risk. Even just 20 minutes of activity daily can help prevention.
• Poor diet: Diets high in saturated fat and low in fruits and vegetables may increase your risk. Aim for 3.5 to 5 cups of fruits and vegetables daily.
• Being overweight or obese: Particularly after menopause, being overweight raises your breast cancer risk.
• Alcohol consumption: The more alcohol you drink, the higher your risk. Try to limit your intake to one drink per day or less.
• Radiation exposure: Receiving radiation therapy to the chest before age 30 can raise your risk.
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Combined hormone therapy for menopause can increase both the risk of developing breast cancer and the chances of it being detected at a later stage.

It’s important to note that while these factors can increase your risk, many people with risk factors never develop breast cancer, and some people with no known risk factors do. Regular screenings and a healthy lifestyle are the best tools for early detection and prevention.

Does a family history of breast cancer mean I will definitely get it?

No, having a family history doesn’t guarantee you will develop breast cancer. Only about 5-10% of breast cancers are linked to inherited genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2. If breast cancer runs in your family, you may be at higher risk, but lifestyle choices and regular screenings can help with early detection and prevention. Genetic counseling can also be helpful if you’re concerned.

How often should I get a mammogram?

The recommended frequency for mammograms varies depending on your age and risk factors. Women aged 40 to 49 years old should talk to their doctor about when to start screening based on their level of personal risk. For women aged between 50 and 74 years old, the typical recommendation is every 1 to 2 years. For high-risk individuals, it may be necessary to get mammograms earlier in life and more frequently, based on doctor recommendations.

Are mammograms painful?

Mammograms can be uncomfortable but they’re not usually painful. The discomfort comes from the pressure applied to your breasts during the procedure. That pressure is necessary because it helps get a clearer image. The good news is that it only takes a few seconds.

There are certain recommended tips to help make the experience less uncomfortable. For instance, scheduling your mammogram a week after your period may reduce tenderness. Communicating with the technician is also a common recommendation. It allows them to adjust the procedure to make it as comfortable as it can be.

What should I do if I find a lump in my breast?

If you do a self-exam for breast cancer and notice any of the signs, the first thing you should do is avoid panicking. Take a breath and try not to let your mind spin before you get any hard answers. Research has shown that 60 to 80 percent of all breast lumps are benign, so don’t immediately imagine the worst. Instead, you should schedule an appointment immediately and get a healthcare provider to evaluate the lump. They will run tests, such as a mammogram or an ultrasound. In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary.

Can men get breast cancer too?

Yes, men can develop breast cancer because they also have breast tissue, but it’s rarer in men than it is in women. According to the CDC, 1 in 100 breast cancer cases occur in men. The symptoms are similar to those in women, including lumps, changes in breast size, or discharge. Men with a strong family history of breast cancer or genetic mutations should consider regular checkups and screenings as well.

Is breast cancer curable?

Cancer is a scary word and it can be a scary diagnostic, but it isn’t always a death sentence. Breast cancer is highly treatable, especially when it’s caught early, which is why awareness is so essential. Survival rates have improved significantly over the years due to advancements in detection and treatment. Treatment options include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapies, depending on the type and stage of cancer. The five-year survival rate for localized breast cancer is about 99%, according to the available data. However, every case is different, so it’s important to work closely with your healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan.

What lifestyle changes can lower my breast cancer risk?

There are many things you can change about your lifestyle that can help reduce your risk of breast cancer, though they won’t eliminate it 100%. Some of those lifestyle changes include maintaining a healthy weight and eating a healthy, balanced diet, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding smoking.

Does wearing a bra increase your risk of breast cancer?

While this is a common myth about breast cancer, there’s no scientific evidence to suggest it’s true. Whether they have underwires or not, bras, including tight-fitting ones, don’t have an effect on breast cancer risk. So if you still wear bras, you don't have to worry about them!

Breast cancer is nothing if not daunting, but the more informed you are, the better choices you’ll be able to make. If you ever have any concerns, talk to a doctor right away. In general, get to know your breasts because familiarity will help you notice anything out of the ordinary a lot faster. Moreover, stay on top of your routine screenings, lead a healthy lifestyle, and take care of yourself.

The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.