10/30/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/30/2024 12:41
By: Lindsey N. Clark, MD, FACS
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and it's important to know that breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States. About 1 in 8 women in the US will develop breast cancer, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. While advances in screening and treatment have reduced the overall risk of death from the disease, the number of people diagnosed with breast cancer continues to rise. When breast cancer is found early, it is easier to treat successfully.
Self-exams, mammogram screening and high risk cancer assessments are the best way to detect breast cancer in its beginning stages. It's important to understand the recommended guidelines when it comes to breast cancer.
Breast examinations:
Mammogram guidelines:
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommends women follow these breast cancer screening guidelines:
The risk for breast cancer increases with age, as most breast cancers are diagnosed after age 50. If you have a family history of breast cancer, it increases your chances for developing it. However, about 85% of women diagnosed have no family history. That is why it is important to talk to your doctor about screening.
What women can do to be proactive and reduce their risk:
You can't control your genetics or avoid getting older. But there are ways to be proactive and reduce some risks factors:
High risk assessments for breast cancer:
A specialized service Ascension Wisconsin offers is a high risk assessment for various types of cancer, including breast cancer. Ascension Wisconsin's Cancer Prevention and Wellness Program is designed to identify individuals who may be at a higher risk of developing cancer and create a plan that can lower that risk.
Ascension Wisconsin's experienced breast care physicians are part of a national team of doctors, sharing best practices and advanced treatment options for breast care. When you choose Ascension Wisconsin, you get a multispecialty team that prioritizes early and personalized treatment; this collaboration is made up of board-certified surgeons, breast radiologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, a cancer navigator, and a dedicated team of oncology nurses, dietitians, rehabilitation specialists, financial advocates, research coordinators, lymphedema specialists and additional care team members.
Lindsey N. Clark, MD, FACS is a board-certified general surgeon with Ascension Medical Group Wisconsin. She specializes in breast surgery and delivers a broad spectrum of surgical treatments for emergency injuries as well as minimally invasive outpatient procedures. Dr. Clark sees patients at Ascension All Saints Hospital Cancer Center, 3811 Spring Street in Racine.To schedule an appointment, call 262-687-5850.