ALABAMA: October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and health officials are encouraging women to make screening a priority. Pink ribbons will appear on storefronts, school campuses, and sports fields, but doctors say the real goal is getting people to book an appointment.
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the United States, aside from skin cancers. About one in eight women will be diagnosed in her lifetime.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women at average risk get a mammogram every two years starting at age 40. The American Cancer Society says women can begin yearly screening at 40 and should have the choice to start by 45. Women with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors should talk with their doctor about starting earlier.
Doctors also encourage women to know how their breasts normally look and feel and to report changes promptly. Those include a new lump, skin dimpling, nipple changes or discharge, or persistent pain.
Local primary care provider, Allison Dye, said the 1 in 8 statistic is shocking.
“Most women don’t have a family history of breast cancer, and far too many women have no idea that alcohol consumption is a huge risk factor, even light daily drinking increases a woman’s risk”, Dye said. “Screening is vitally important. Early detection makes it significantly easier to treat.”
Health officials say the message is simple: don’t wait. A mammogram takes only minutes and could save a life.
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