Maintaining breast health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being. For Bayhealth’s Breast Care Coordinator Trisha Bentley, BSN, RN, this mission became personal when she faced her own breast cancer diagnosis in 2019. With over a decade of experience in educating patients and the community, Bentley emphasizes the importance of proactive breast care to improve survival rates and ensure early detection.
Why Breast Health Awareness Matters
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women. Understanding the risks, symptoms, and preventive measures is vital to ensure early detection and successful treatment. As Bentley highlights, early-stage breast cancer often presents no symptoms, making regular screenings essential.
6 Key Breast Health Tips to Follow
Here are Trisha Bentley’s top tips for maintaining breast health and lowering your risk of developing breast cancer:
1. Prioritize Regular Mammograms
Mammography screenings are vital in detecting breast cancer early, often before any physical symptoms emerge. Annual mammograms can identify abnormalities in breast tissue long before they can be felt during a self-exam or clinical checkup.
Recommended Screening Guidelines:
- Women aged 40 and above should undergo annual mammograms.
- Women with a family history of breast cancer may need to start screenings earlier based on medical advice.
2. Practice Breast Self-Awareness
Breast self-awareness involves understanding what is normal for your body. Unlike structured self-examinations, this method encourages women to stay familiar with their breast texture, size, and appearance.
Key Steps for Breast Self-Awareness:
- Regularly observe your breasts in the mirror for any visible changes.
- Feel for lumps, thickened areas, or unusual textures while bathing or changing clothes.
- Immediately report any unusual findings to your healthcare provider.
3. Understand Your Family History
Family history plays a critical role in breast cancer risk. Women with a close relative diagnosed with breast cancer are at higher risk.
Key Actions:
- Discuss your family medical history with your doctor.
- Consider genetic counseling or advanced screening if you have a strong family history of breast cancer.
4. Learn the 12 Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Being aware of breast cancer signs ensures you can act quickly if symptoms appear. The 12 common signs include:
- Thickened area or lump
- Skin dimpling
- Nipple crust
- Redness or warmth in the breast
- New nipple discharge
- Skin sores
- A bump or swelling
- Growing veins on the breast
- A sunken or retracted nipple
- Change in breast shape or size
- “Orange peel” skin texture
- A hard lump that may feel fixed or immobile
Resource for Visual Learning: Visit KnowYourLemons.com for a visual guide on recognizing these symptoms.
5. Act Immediately on Unusual Signs
If you notice any unusual breast changes or symptoms, don’t delay seeking medical advice. Early consultation can improve outcomes significantly.
6. Schedule Annual Clinical Exams
In addition to mammograms and self-awareness, annual clinical breast exams by a healthcare professional provide an extra layer of protection. These exams help detect abnormalities that may go unnoticed during self-checks.
Where to Get Breast Cancer Screenings
Bayhealth offers mammography services at their ACR-accredited locations in Dover, Middletown, Milford, and Smyrna. For appointments, call:
- 302-744-7060 (Kent County)
- 302-430-5707 (Sussex County)
Affordable Screening Options for Uninsured Women
Bayhealth offers low-cost or no-cost mammograms and clinical breast exams for uninsured and underinsured women. To learn more or schedule an appointment, call 302-744-6562.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: At what age should I start getting mammograms?
Most women should begin annual mammograms at age 40. However, if you have a family history of breast cancer, consult your doctor about starting screenings earlier.
Q2: What is the difference between a mammogram and a clinical breast exam?
A mammogram is an X-ray that detects early signs of breast cancer, while a clinical breast exam is a physical examination performed by a healthcare provider.
Q3: How often should I practice breast self-awareness?
Breast self-awareness should be ongoing. Regularly observe your breasts for any changes in appearance or texture.
Q4: What should I do if I find a lump in my breast?
If you notice a lump, contact your doctor immediately for further evaluation. Early consultation improves treatment outcomes.
Q5: Are there resources available for visual guidance on breast cancer symptoms?
Yes, KnowYourLemons.com provides an excellent visual guide on identifying breast cancer symptoms.
