Aside from skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common breast cancer care found in women in America. Much like prostate cancer in men, one in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. While some of the DNA mutations that cause breast cancer are inherited, most are acquired—this means the change in breast cells occurs during a person’s life. Keep reading for more information about breast cancer, as well as why mammograms and early detection are so important.
Types of Breast Cancer
Many people don’t know that there are several different types of breast cancer, most of which depend on the specific cells in the breast that are cancerous. Different types of breast cancer also depend on whether the cancer is spreading or not.
For example, in situ breast cancer is cancer that starts in the milk duct, and has not spread to the rest of the breast tissue. Invasive breast cancer is what it sounds like—cancer that has spread. Under the umbrella of invasive breast cancer, there are two main types:
- Triple-negative breast cancer;
- And inflammatory breast cancer.
Here are a few less common types of breast cancer:
- Paget disease of the breast;
- Angiosarcoma;
- And phyllodes tumor.
What You Need to Know About Mammograms
Mammograms, or low-dose X-rays, are crucial to the early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Changes in breast tissue aren’t always easy to notice with self-exams, so it’s important to have regular, professional screenings. If you’ve never had a mammogram before, don’t be apprehensive about it. They’re routine and simple. And remember, only two to four mammograms in 1,000 lead to a breast cancer diagnosis. Here are a few tips if you’re due for one:
- Don’t schedule your mammogram when you know your breasts will be tender, like the week before your period starts.
- Avoid wearing deodorant when you go in for your mammogram—deodorant can actually contain substances that can show up on your X-ray.
- Wear a skirt or pants so you don’t have to get completely undressed for your X-ray.
- Be sure to discuss any recent changes you’ve noticed in your breasts with your doctor.
RMC’s Mammograms & Mimosas Event
Are you ready to take charge of your health? Get a mammogram! And why not enjoy a mimosa while you’re at it? Join us for our Mammograms & Mimosas event taking place this October. You can find more information on our website!