Beat Breast Cancer with Early Detection

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a special designation created 40 years ago to educate women about the disease and the importance of detecting it early. Fittingly, the best means of detection ‒ mammography ‒ is celebrated mid-month, October 18, on National Mammography Day.

Breast cancer is all too common and seems to touch just about every family in this country. One in eight women will develop invasive breast cancer in the course of their lives ‒ it is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths among women (behind only lung cancer) and the second-highest type of cancer among women (behind only skin cancer).

The pink ribbons and community events in October ‒ and even year-round ‒ emphasize the importance of early detection of the disease and support for those trying to survive it. Breast cancer awareness is so essential because many women with breast cancer have no symptoms.

Early detection takes vigilance, including performing monthly breast self-exams, scheduling regular clinical breast exams, and when appropriate, getting a mammogram. A mammogram helps doctors detect small tumors at a much earlier stage when treatment is typically more successful. And, if breast cancer is found early and in a localized stage, the individual not only has a higher survival rate but also will require less treatment and recovery time.

Southwestern Medical Center is your partner in early detection and overall breast health. Our primary care providers and women’s health specialists can perform regular clinical breast exams. We pair mammography technology and skilled radiologists to deliver expert, accurate imaging. And should cancer be detected; our clinical teams can help devise the best course of treatment for you.

You can step up your vigilance efforts today by visiting swmconline.com/womens-health, where you can learn more about our services, take a breast cancer risk assessment, find a provider or even schedule an appointment for a clinical exam.

As mentioned above, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is also about support, and a tribute to resilience and hope. It celebrates the survivors who inspire us all and reminds us of those who have lost their lives to the disease. It also reinforces the importance of supporting research that can lead to innovations in treatment.

As some of the pink ribbons remind us, when it comes to the subject of breast cancer ‒ whether it’s precautionary screenings, treatment, or recovery ‒ no body fights alone. Southwestern Medical Center will always be in your corner ‒ that’s why we’re here.