10/05/2022 | News release | Distributed by Public on 10/05/2022 13:56
Most of us know someone who has been affected by breast cancer. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a yearly campaign to raise awareness about breast cancer. The theme this year is "to ensure every woman has access to the screenings she needs and the support she deserves."
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, our cancer experts at UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center share what you should know for early detection, getting screened and more.
Breast cancer is a disease in which cancer cells form in the tissues of the breast. This group of cancer cells can invade surrounding tissues or spread to other areas of the body.
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in American women (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer). It's the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in women in the U.S., behind lung cancer.
There are wide disparities in breast cancer death rates. According to the American Cancer Society, as of 2019, breast cancer was the leading cause of cancer death for Black women. Black women are 41% more likely to die from breast cancer than white women, despite being less likely to be diagnosed with it.
Breast cancer can form when a buildup of cells forms a mass of tissues, called a lump, growth, or tumor. The malignant tumors that develop in the breast can spread when cells break away from the original tumor. The cells can enter the blood vessels or lymph vessels that branch into tissues throughout the body.
Clearing up some myths: Breast cancer is not contagious. It is also not caused by wearing underwire bras, deodorants, mammograms, implants, caffeine, cell phones, or microwaves, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.
It's estimated that on average, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. It also occurs nearly 100 times more in women than in men. Here are some factors that can increase your risk for breast cancer:
While these can increase your chances, 60-70% of people with breast cancer have no connection to these risk factors, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.
When breast cancers are small enough, there may not be any noticeable changes in the breast. As a tumor in the breast grows, it can change how the breast looks or feels. Common changes may include:
Adult women of all ages are encouraged to do a breast self-exam at least once a month. Women often feel a lump in their breast, which prompts them to seek more screening. A self-exam can help you become familiar with your breasts so you can notice any changes.
Learn more about how to conduct a breast self-exam
The UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center recommends that women have regular clinical breast exams and screening mammograms. These can help detect breast cancer early, which can allow for early treatment. There are a few ways physicians can find breast cancer.
Learn more about breast cancer screening from the National Cancer Institute
It's important to get regular breast exams because early detection is your best chance to find cancer in the early stages. According to the American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is detected early, and hasn't spread, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%. Breast cancer that's found early is easier to treat successfully.
Learn more about breast cancer early detection
Find a location near you to get a free mammogram in California
Talk to your doctor about reducing your breast cancer risk factors, and whether you are at an average or increased risk for breast cancer. To schedule a screening mammogram, contact the Breast Imaging Division at 916-734-0655 or make an appointment on MyUCDavisHealth.
The UC Davis Health Breast Imaging Division is an American College of Radiology accredited Breast Imaging Center of Excellence. We offer a full range of breast imaging services with state-of-the-art equipment. We use a variety of biopsy techniques including digital mammography, tomosynthesis, ultrasound, and MRI. Each of our breast imaging exams is read by specialists.