Early Detection Saves Lives
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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to learn about breast cancer and how to help prevent it. Breast cancer happens when cells in the breast grow out of control. It mostly affects women, but men can get it too. Some things, like getting older or having family members who had breast cancer, can’t be changed. But you can take steps to lower your risk by taking care of your health.
Prevention
- Routine screening and self-breast exams are important for your breast health. Knowing how your breasts usually feel can help you spot any changes, like lumps or changes in size or shape. Contact your health care provider if you notice any changes.
- Women ages 40 to 74 should schedule a mammogram every two years with their health care provider or with the Florida Department of Health in Clay County if eligible for the Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program.
- Women who have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, such as genetics and breast density, should schedule regular breast MRIs and mammograms every year. It is important to talk with your health care provider to better understand your risk.
- Healthy habits can help prevent breast cancer. A healthy lifestyle includes eating nutritious foods, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, regular physical activity, and adhering to recommended screenings.
- Breastfeeding lowers a woman’s risk of getting breast cancer. When a mother breastfeeds, her body goes through hormonal changes. These changes can lower the risk of developing breast cancer later in life.
Resources
The Florida Department of Health in Clay County provides access to free or low-cost breast cancer screenings to women who are uninsured or underinsured, have a low income, and meet the program eligibility requirements. Mammograms can detect breast cancer in the early stages when it is easier to treat.
To see if you qualify for these screenings or for more information, call 904-529-2800.
Together, we can help raise awareness and support breast health.
