Breast cancer is the second most common cause of death among women in the United States. Mammography can play a critical role in early detection of breast cancer because it can identify abnormal cells before they can be detected during a breast exam.

Prevention

While we don’t yet have conclusive evidence, it appears that diet plays an important role in raising risk factors for many conditions, including breast cancer. The following tips can improve your overall health:

• Reduce fat consumption.
• Maintain an ideal weight.
• Limit alcohol to only one drink a day (5 oz. wine, 12 oz. beer, or 1.5 oz. 80 proof alcohol).
• Move to a more plant-based diet that includes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, soy foods, and flaxseed.
• Avoid hormone therapy or limit it to short-term use. 

Screening

If you have any known risk factors, including dense breasts, please discuss your screening options with us.

Mammography. This is an X-ray exam of breast tissue that can show tumors that are still too small to be felt. We recommend a schedule of regular mammograms every 1 to 2 years between the ages of 40 and 74. Women at high risk for breast cancer should be screened more frequently and beginning at a younger age. We can review your history and decide on a screening schedule that’s best for you.

If you notice any of the following, please call us immediately:

• A new breast lump or change in breast size
• Nipple discharge or redness
• Swelling in your armpit
• Other changes in your breast tissue

Most lumps are not cancer, but we should always check.