I Frequently Discuss Breast Health and I’m Unapologetic About It

I don’t purposely bring up breasts all the time, but given my experiences, it’s hard not to. Topics like mammograms, self-exams, breast implant illness, and cancer statistics often slip into my daily conversations without a thought to whether it might make someone uncomfortable.

I’ve definitely been advised—subtly and not so subtly—to tone down the breast chatter. But here’s my take: If discussions about breast health make you uneasy, consider how much more uncomfortable dealing with breast cancer is.

You might think it’s just the overly cautious individuals who shy away from reminders about self-exams, but even everyday women, including those who champion liberal, feminist, or body-positive ideals, can become visibly uncomfortable when I mention their bosoms.

When someone goes through a traumatic experience, people generally respond in one of two ways: They either openly share their trauma or they bury it deep and act as if it never happened. I’m not shaming those who choose the latter; I personally find it liberating and healing to be transparent about my journey.

As an Enneagram Type 8, I thrive in confrontational situations. While I’m not urging strangers in line at the grocery store to conduct breast checks, I’m quite open about my breast cancer experiences, especially if someone comments on my pink-ribbon shirt. If they invite the conversation, I’m ready to share my story.

At 35, I was diagnosed with breast cancer after discovering a third lump during a self-exam. Following my first mammogram and ultrasound, the results were deemed inconclusive, and I was told to return in six months. But my instincts told me otherwise, leading me to seek a second opinion. That’s when I learned my third lump was, unfortunately, cancerous. Initially diagnosed with stage 0 breast cancer, further testing revealed stage 1 after a bilateral mastectomy.

Just when I thought I’d left cancer behind, I was diagnosed again last fall. Eight months of intense treatment—surgeries, scans, chemotherapy, and radiation—have left me exhausted, but I am grateful for a second chance.

It’s perplexing that many women can admire glamorous celebrities or watch suggestive content but shy away from discussing their own breast health. It doesn’t add up to celebrate others’ bodies while neglecting one’s own.

What’s truly attractive is not having cancer—and early detection is key. We can only catch what we actively monitor. Self-exams, mammograms, and consultations with doctors are all vital. For those with a family history of certain cancers, genetic testing can be invaluable in assessing risk.

Like many, I share laughs and memes with friends via social media, but I prioritize reminding them each month to check their breasts. If we can share celebrity photos, we must also care enough to raise awareness about the fact that one in eight women will face a breast cancer diagnosis in their lifetime.

Most breast cancer patients lack a family history, and many are diagnosed at a young age, long before they’re advised to have regular screenings. Breast cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, or background. The sooner you catch something unusual, the better your chances of addressing it effectively.

I will continue to discuss breast health because there isn’t enough dialogue happening. If my conversations encourage even one person to conduct a self-exam, book a mammogram, or pursue genetic testing, then all the discomfort I face will be worthwhile. Cancer is a grim topic—I know that firsthand. My mission is to help others avoid facing this daunting challenge.

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In summary, I will not shy away from discussing breast health, as the stakes are too high. Awareness and early detection can save lives, and I’m committed to ensuring that my experiences help others.

Keyphrase: breast health awareness

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