October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

10/26/2023

Breast cancer is the most common invasive cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death for women. For a woman in the U.S., there is a 1 in 8 chance she will develop breast cancer. In rare instances, breast cancer can also affect men.

However, screening and treatment improves survival rates. According to the American Cancer Society, there are currently more than 3.8 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S.

Symptoms of breast cancer

Usually, the first symptom is an area of thickened tissue in the breast, or a lump in the breast or armpit. Most breast lumps are not cancerous but you should visit your doctor for an exam if you notice one.

Other symptoms to watch for:

Pain in the armpits or breast that does not change with the monthly cycle
Pitting or redness of the skin of the breast, similar to the surface of an orange
A rash around or on one of the nipples
Discharge from a nipple, possibly containing blood
A sunken or inverted nipple
A change in the size or shape of the breast
Peeling, flaking or scaling of the skin on the breast or nipple

What you can do

Many women with breast cancer have no symptoms. This is why regular breast cancer screening is so important.

Be aware of the symptoms of breast cancer. Contact your doctor or clinic if you notice a change in your breast(s).
Get a mammogram. Your Hennepin Health plan covers mammograms. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends mammograms every two years for women ages 40-74.
Wear It Pink on Friday, October 20 to bring awareness to breast cancer.