Eligibility
At what age does routine mammogram screening typically begin for average-risk women?
Age 40.
True or False: Does having a family history of breast cancer increase my risk?
True, having a family history, especially if a close relative like a mother, sister, or daughter has had breast cancer, increases your risk. The risk is higher if the relative was diagnosed before age 50 or if there are multiple family members affected.
True/False: Breast Cancer can be treated.
True.
Breast cancer can be treated. The success of treatment depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, the type of cancer, and the overall health of the patient. However, with early detection and treatment, many women with breast cancer can be cured.
True/False: Once diagnosed with breast cancer, it is considered a death sentence.
FALSE.
Early Detection: Mammography and other screening tools allow for early detection, when the cancer is often smaller and more treatable. Early-stage breast cancer has a significantly higher cure rate.
Can men be eligible for breast cancer screening?
Yes, men with a family history of breast cancer or genetic mutations are eligible for screenings, though male breast cancer is rare.
True/False: Those with a family history of breast cancer may be eligible to screen before the standard screening age.
True.
You can be screened for breast cancer earlier than age 40 if you have certain risk factors, such as: A genetic mutation, A family history of breast cancer, and Physical symptoms like a lump or breast asymmetry
True/False: Finding cancer earlier means you may have better treatment options.
TRUE.
Finding cancer earlier often means that the cancer is smaller and has not spread as much. This can make it easier to treat and may lead to a better chance of survival. However, it is important to note that not all cancers are curable.
How is breast cancer typically diagnosed?
Breast cancer is diagnosed through a combination of methods, including a physical exam, mammogram, ultrasound, biopsy, and sometimes an MRI. A biopsy, where tissue is removed and examined under a microscope, is the definitive way to diagnose breast cancer.
Name two signs or symptoms of breast cancer
Changes in the breast: This can include a new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm, a change in the size or shape of the breast, dimpling or puckering of the skin, or a nipple that is pulled in or inverted.
Nipple discharge: This can be a clear, bloody, or milky discharge from the nipple, even if you are not breastfeeding.
If my mother had breast cancer, will I definitely get it?
No, having a mother or close relative with breast cancer increases your risk, but it doesn’t guarantee you will develop it. Other factors like lifestyle, environment, and personal health also play a role.
True/False: Newly diagnosed patients should discuss and research all treatment and clinical research options offered.
TRUE.
Understanding your options: There are many different treatment options available for breast cancer, and each has its own risks and benefits. By understanding all of your options, you can make an informed decision about the best course of treatment for you.
Finding the right treatment for you: Not all treatments are right for everyone. Some treatments may be more effective for certain types of breast cancer or for patients with certain risk factors. By researching all of your options, you can find the treatment that is most likely to be successful for you.
What is a mammogram, and how does it detect breast cancer?
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray imaging test specifically designed to detect breast cancer at its earliest stages, often before any symptoms appear. It plays a crucial role in early detection, leading to better treatment outcomes and potentially saving lives.
True/False: Even if I don't have insurance, I can still get screened for breast cancer.
True: The American Cancer Society offers a number of resources to help women get screened for breast cancer, including information about free or low-cost mammograms.
What are the common genetic mutations looked for when discussing family history and breast cancer?
BRCA1 and BRCA2
Name 2 surgeries associated with breast cancer.
Lumpectomy: This surgery involves removing the tumor and a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue. It is often used in early-stage breast cancer and aims to conserve as much of the breast as possible.
Mastectomy: This procedure involves the removal of one or both breasts, partially or completely. It may be recommended for more advanced cancer or if there is a high risk of recurrence.
What is a breast biopsy, and when is it needed?
A breast biopsy involves removing a small sample of breast tissue to check for cancer cells. It is usually recommended when a lump or abnormality is found on imaging tests, such as a mammogram or ultrasound, and needs further examination.
What should I do if my insurance denies coverage for a treatment?
If coverage is denied, you can appeal the decision. Gather supporting documentation from your healthcare provider and follow your insurance company’s appeal process.
What can a person do to better understand their family history?
To better understand your family history of cancer, you can: gather detailed information about your close relatives' cancer diagnoses, including the type of cancer, age at diagnosis, and whether they are still alive, by talking to family members, reviewing medical records if possible and getting genetic testing if possible
Name 2 types of treatments for breast cancer.
Surgery: This is the most common treatment for breast cancer. The type of surgery will depend on the stage of the cancer and the size and location of the tumor. Some women may have a lumpectomy, which removes only the tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue. Others may have a mastectomy, which removes the entire breast.
Radiation therapy: This uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It can be used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells, or it can be used as the main treatment for some types of breast cancer.
Chemotherapy: This uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be given before surgery to shrink the tumor, after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells, or as the main treatment for some types of breast cancer.
Hormone therapy: This uses drugs to block the hormones that can fuel the growth of breast cancer cells. It is often used for women with hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer.
Targeted therapy: This uses drugs that target specific molecules involved in the growth and survival of cancer cells. It is often used for women with certain types of breast cancer, such as HER2-positive breast cancer.
Immunotherapy: This uses the body's own immune system to fight cancer cells. It is a newer type of treatment that is being studied for use in breast cancer.
Clinical trials: These are research studies that test new treatments for breast cancer. They offer patients the opportunity to try new treatments that may not be available elsewhere.
What resources are available to help me cope with my diagnosis?
In-person support groups: These groups provide a safe and supportive environment for women with breast cancer to share their experiences, ask questions, and receive emotional support from others who understand what they are going through. You can find in-person support groups through your local hospital, cancer center, or community organization.
Online support groups: These groups allow women with breast cancer to connect with others from all over the world who are facing similar challenges. You can find online support groups through websites such as the American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institute, and the Susan G. Komen Foundation.
Counseling Services:
Individual counseling: A therapist can provide you with individual counseling to help you cope with the emotional challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis. They can help you process your feelings, develop coping mechanisms, and make decisions about your treatment.