Protecting Your Health: The Importance of Breast Cancer Screenings
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By Sheldon Riklon, M.D.
Every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminds us that breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers in women. While survival rates have improved, disparities remain, especially in rural and other underserved communities. One of the most effective ways to reduce risk and save lives is through regular screenings.
Understanding Breast Cancer
Breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably and invade healthy tissues. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in women, only behind lung cancer.
The American Cancer Society reports that the median age of diagnosis is 62; however, recent data shows a slight increase in breast cancer rates among women under 50. Researchers suggest that a mix of lifestyle factors, such as less physical activity and pregnancies later in life, combined with barriers to accessing care, may be contributing to this trend.
Barriers to Care
Many women may experience challenges when accessing care and regular screenings, which can delay early detection and treatment. These may include:
- Cultural stigma and fear of social repercussions may discourage regular screenings.
- A “wait until something is wrong” mindset leads women to seek care only when symptoms appear, which may mean the cancer is at a more advanced stage.
- Geographic barriers, such as living in rural areas, where access to mammography and cancer treatment may be limited.
Prevention and Screening
Early detection is key. In Arkansas, about 41% of breast cancers are found at a late stage, which is higher than the national average. Regular breast cancer screenings help identify issues before symptoms appear. There are several different types of screenings that your doctor can perform.
- A Clinical Breast Exam (CBE) is usually performed at your annual exam, during which your doctor checks for lumps or changes in your breast.
- A Mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women get screening mammograms every other year, from ages 40 to 74, while The American College of Radiology, The Society of Breast Imaging and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommend that women with an average risk for breast cancer start annual screening at age 40.
- Arkansas Medicaid will cover the cost of a mammogram.
- The BreastCare Program also offers no-cost screenings to eligible women. Learn more about the program at healthy.arkansas.org.
- A breast MRI is performed on women who are at a higher risk, such as women with a family history of breast cancer.
Breast cancer is common, but preventive care and healthy lifestyle choices can lower risk and improve survival. This October, take time to schedule your screening.
For more information about breast cancer screenings, visit healthy.arkansas.org.
Sheldon Riklon, M.D., is a professor in the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Department of Family and Preventive Medicine and a co-investigator with the UAMS Institute for Community Health Innovation.