Each year, over 250,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with breast cancer. As the second most common cancer for women, breast cancer prevention begins with raising awareness and encouraging women to get screened.
For women at average risk, early detection screening should begin at age 45. However, suppose you have certain risk factors such as a personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer or changes in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. In that case, your general physician may recommend you be screened earlier. A mammogram is still the best way to detect for breast cancer in most women. However, awareness of how your breasts look and feel and conducting your own monthly breast self-exam can be a great early warning system. If you notice any changes in your breast size or shape, pain, or lumps, consult with your doctor immediately.
If you receive a breast cancer diagnosis, it’s essential that you understand your treatment options and work with your physician on the best plan based on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as your overall health. Typically, treatment plans include a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy.
It is important to know that breast cancer’s mortality rate has declined over the past 30 years. By being proactive with breast screenings and educating yourself, you can improve your chances of surviving cancer if it occurs.
Dr. Todd Pezzi first became interested in oncology at a young age after seeing cancer impact his own family. He is passionate about delivering state-of-the-art oncologic care to the residents of Southwest Florida.
Thomas J. Klein, M.D., Ph.D., FACRO is a board-certified radiation oncologist who provides world class cancer treatment in a caring community setting. He values the personal relationships he forms with each of his patients and is committed to helping them in their fight against cancer. Dr. Klein is an advocate for his patients both in and out of the clinic. He has raised awareness on news broadcasts, lobbied for cancer patients’ rights on Capitol Hill, and educated physicians around the country on making better treatment decisions for their patients.
