October is a time for falling leaves and cozy sweaters, but it’s also an important reminder to pause and think about our health. As your local healthcare family, we believe knowledge is power, especially when it comes to breast cancer. This topic can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to talk about it in a way that’s hopeful and empowering.

What Is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a disease where cells in the breast grow out of control. These cells can form a tumor that can often be felt as a lump or seen on an imaging test like a mammogram. It’s important to know that not all lumps are cancerous, but checking them is always the right first step. Learn more

Who Can Get Breast Cancer?

While we often hear about breast cancer affecting women, it’s important to know that anyone can get it, regardless of gender or age. However, it is most common in women. Your risk can be influenced by factors like family history, personal health history, and lifestyle, which is why regular check-ups are important. Learn more

Early Detection Is Your Superpower

The very best tool we have in the fight against breast cancer is finding it early. When detected early, breast cancer is often highly treatable. The five-year survival rate for localized breast cancer is 99%. That’s a number filled with hope! Learn more

Your action plan is simple and powerful:

• Schedule Your Yearly Mammogram: 
  • A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast that can find cancer early, even before a lump can be felt.
• Perform Monthly Self-Exams: 
  • Get to know your body. What feels normal for you? Report any changes, like a new lump, skin changes, or nipple discharge, to your doctor right away.
• Keep Your Yearly Well-Woman Exam: 
  • Your annual appointment with your gynecologist or primary care provider is a key time to discuss your overall breast health.

Learn more about preventive care benefits for women.

How to Schedule Your Appointment

Knowing where to go is easy. You can start by calling your primary care provider or gynecologist. A quick tip: Check with your health insurance provider first to understand your coverage for mammograms and well-woman visits, which are often fully covered as preventive care.

If you need a provider, our BMC Community Clinic is here for you with walk-in availability and compassionate care. We can provide clinical breast exams and referrals for mammograms.

Where to Find More Information

We know you might have questions, and seeking information from trusted sources is key. For more in-depth information, support resources, and the latest research, we highly recommend visiting the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF). It’s a wonderful, patient-friendly resource.

Your health is your journey, and you don’t have to walk it alone. Our BMC family is right here in North Central Pennsylvania, ready to support you with our imaging, lab, and clinical services. 

Let’s work together to stay proactive, strong, and healthy.

Sources:

American Cancer Society. “What Is Breast Cancer?” (2023). www.cancer.org

National Breast Cancer Foundation. “Mammograms.” (2023). www.nationalbreastcancer.org

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Who Is at Risk for Breast Cancer?” (2023). www.cdc.gov

American Cancer Society. “Breast Cancer Survival Rates.” (2023). www.cancer.org

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. “Preventive Care Benefits for Women.” www.healthcare.gov