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At the age of 35, I received a breast cancer diagnosis that I was not prepared for. With no family history of the disease, I felt relatively safe. After all, I had previously discovered two benign breast lumps over the past decade. Why would this third lump, found during a self-examination, be any different? However, I soon learned that I was indeed at risk for breast cancer, and I had been unaware of it. Since my diagnosis, I have dedicated the last four years to educating others by sharing my journey. Despite being young, active, and maintaining a healthy diet complemented by annual gynecological check-ups, I became one of the one in eight women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. It is crucial for everyone to grasp their breast cancer risk.
To gain insights, I spoke with Dr. Ava Thompson, a breast radiologist, about essential information regarding breast health. First and foremost, understanding breast cancer risk is vital. How can we determine our risk, and what actions should we take once we do?
Dr. Thompson outlines that women face both nonmodifiable and modifiable risk factors concerning breast cancer. It’s crucial to recognize that while some risks are beyond our control, others can be influenced by lifestyle choices. Moreover, she emphasizes that women should assess whether they need to be monitored for breast cancer before reaching the age of forty. A “formal risk algorithmic calculation” can be done with the assistance of a qualified doctor.
I understand the reluctance to seek this information. Many believe that ignorance is bliss. However, being aware of our risk can be empowering. Rather than waiting for cancer to strike, we can take charge of our health through regular exams, self-checks, and even genetic testing—benefiting ourselves and our biological relatives. Additionally, we can address those modifiable risk factors that Dr. Thompson highlighted.
The primary risk factors for breast cancer include aging and being female. Dr. Thompson notes that this encompasses cisgender women, transgender men who went through puberty as women, and transgender individuals using hormones. Among the nonmodifiable risk factors are a family history of premenopausal breast cancer, known genetic mutations, and a history of male breast cancer. Other factors include being Black or of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, receiving high-dose chest radiation, starting menstruation before age 12, or entering menopause after age 55.
While that may sound daunting, there is hope. There are three significant modifiable risk factors. The first involves limiting alcohol intake. The second is maintaining a healthy weight, which Dr. Thompson says can significantly reduce risk. Lastly, regular exercise is crucial; the American Cancer Society recommends “150 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise per week.” These three factors interconnect; reducing alcohol, managing weight, and staying active promote overall health and can lower breast cancer risk.
Dr. Thompson also stresses the importance of consulting with your doctor about oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapies. While these options have benefits, they should be carefully weighed against your personal risk factors.
When I asked Dr. Thompson whether lifestyle changes genuinely impact breast cancer risk, she affirmed, “All of these changes positively affect more than just breast cancer risk! Given that one in eight women is at risk, it’s vital to take every possible measure to reduce that risk.”
What if your risk is higher than average? Dr. Thompson recommends discussing this with your healthcare provider. Remember, “75% of those diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history, and only 5-15% of cases are genetic.” The majority of women who develop breast cancer do not have a hereditary component.
For individuals who are adopted or have limited information about their biological ancestry, Dr. Thompson advises seeking the help of a genetic counselor, who can assist in determining if genetic testing is appropriate. Additionally, contacting agencies involved in egg, sperm, or embryo donation may help in obtaining medical records.
If you discover you are at high risk for breast cancer, options are available. Dr. Thompson encourages early and more frequent screenings, utilizing MRI alongside mammograms, and, if warranted, early family planning and fertility preservation through egg freezing.
As a two-time breast cancer survivor, I often share that early detection can be lifesaving. Dr. Thompson concurs. She recalls a patient who reconnected with her biological family and uncovered a strong history of breast cancer. After undergoing genetic testing and an MRI, she discovered she had a small, early-stage cancer. By taking a proactive approach to her health, this patient was saved. “We aim to empower you into action, not anxiety,” Dr. Thompson emphasizes.
Though it may seem that some individuals—like myself—shouldn’t face breast cancer, the reality is that it is alarmingly common among women. However, with increasing knowledge about risk factors and effective preventative measures, I am grateful for modern medicine and dedicated professionals like Dr. Thompson. Understanding your risk, maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider, and ensuring regular screenings could potentially save your life.
For further reading on related topics, check out this post on home insemination, an excellent resource on pregnancy, and home insemination can be found at Womens Health.
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Summary
Understanding your breast cancer risk is essential for proactive health management. By identifying both nonmodifiable and modifiable risk factors, such as age and lifestyle choices, individuals can take steps to lower their risk. Consulting healthcare professionals and considering genetic testing when necessary can also empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health.
Keyphrase: breast cancer risk awareness
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