Breast Cancer: Early Detection, Screening & Intervention
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women. According to the American Cancer Society data, one in eight women and 1 in 833 men will develop breast cancer. There are many variables that come into play in the development of breast cancer. Most of us are motivated to do anything to prevent or diminish the risk of developing it. Recent studies published by the NIH show that there can be a nutritional influence in about 35% of cancers. One can minimize the risk via diet by reducing alcohol, fat, and red meat intake. It is important to have adequate vitamin d and fiber. It has been consistently shown that being regularly physically active can diminish the risk of developing cancer. There is even medication that can be used preventatively in certain patients found to be at high risk of developing breast cancer.
Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, cancer still can develop. Screening for early detection and intervention also is instrumental in better health outcomes. There are simple screening tools that your doctor can use to help assess if you are at higher risk of developing breast cancer, like the Tyrer-Cuzick score. It takes a few minutes and can lead to an additional evaluation in a high-risk patient and ultimately the goal is early detection. It is important to talk with your doctor to come up with your individualized screening plan. Sometimes there are different images or even genetic testing that might be considered. The current recommendation is to start screening at age 40, or sooner based on your risk factors. There are new developments every day that are being used to help detect cancer early. such as the Galleri blood test. Galleri is a multi-cancer, early-detection blood test that screens for over fifty different types of cancer. Galleri can help screen for breast cancer, but it also screens for many other types. Men also should be screened based on their individual risk factors. The goal with early detection is that treatment can be initiated sooner, and that will lead to a better outcome.
If cancer is found, many resources and treatments can help. Having a great team and someone to advocate for your health is essential both for your physical and emotional well-being. Know that you are not alone. Access to resources and someone you can talk to in your time of need is invaluable.
When you next go in for your annual exam make sure to review and update your family history, discuss your risk factors, as well as create your individual screening plan with your physician. As a member of the Ms.Medicine network, we are committed to providing you with individualized gender-specific care plans. If we can ever be of service, please do not hesitate to contact your provider.
