Breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women. But when cancer is only in the breast and is found and treated early, the relative survival rate is 99%. There’s no better reason to find it early.
These steps may help find or stop breast cancer before it gets the upper hand:
- Do self-exams at least once a month. Any changes like new lumps or changes in the breast tissue or skin could be early warning signs. If you notice anything that doesn't seem normal, talk to your doctor.
- Get routine mammograms. If you're a woman over 50, be sure to have a mammogram every two years. If you're between the ages of 40 to 49, talk to your doctor about when to start and how often to get one.
- Keep healthy habits. A healthy lifestyle can lower your risk for breast cancer and many other sicknesses.
One in eight women will get breast cancer in her lifetime. The National Breast Cancer Foundation offers a free eBook to make sure women have the tools and facts they need to protect their health. Get yours at nationalbreastcancer.org.
Sources: Centers for Disease Control and National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc., BlueCross BlueShield of Texas