This annual campaign began in October 1985 as an organized movement to raise awareness of and money for breast cancer research, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and finding a cure. It also focuses on promoting mammograms as an effective weapon in the fight against this deadly disease.
Like with other cancers, breast cancer is a result of cells in the breast growing out of control. This can occur in any part of the breast, but most breast cancers begin in the ducts or lobules and may metastasize to other parts of the body through blood vessels and lymph nodes. Early detection can help keep metastasis from happening, which is why it is so important to get regular screenings.
The American Cancer Society suggests that women at average risk for breast cancer have the option to start annual mammograms at age 40, but they should definitely be receiving annual mammograms by age 45. While a common symptom of breast cancer is a lump or mass, sometimes cancer can exist with no symptoms at all. This is why regular screenings are so important.
Unfortunately, not all cancers can be detected with a mammogram. This is why an important part of breast health is being aware of how your breasts normally look and feel. This will help you notice any changes down the road.
Some possible symptoms of breast cancer include:
- Breast lumps
- Changes in breast shape
- Swelling
- Skin dimpling, often compared to the look of an orange peel
- Discharge from the nipple
- Red, dry or flaking skin on breast or nipple
- Nipple or breast pain
- Inverted nipple
- Swollen lymph nodes
If you have any of these symptoms, it doesn’t mean you have breast cancer, as other conditions can cause these symptoms, but you should definitely reach out to your physician to have the symptoms checked.
USMD is fortunate to have two physicians who specialize in breast disease and breast cancer:
Kory Jones, MD, has been in practice in Arlington since 2007. She specializes in general surgery with a focus on cancers, disorders and diseases of the breast. She prides herself on offering individualized treatment plans tailored to the unique needs of each patient.
Sobia Nabeel, MD, collaborates with each patient so she can deliver comprehensive, dynamic and compassionate care, and optimize care coordination, which she believes allows for the best possible clinical outcomes.
USMD also has two imaging centers that provide 3D breast mammography, along with other screenings.
