Breast Cancer Awareness Month: When to Get Screened, What to Watch For, and How to Know Your Risk
About 1 in 8 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. That number is sobering, but it hides a hopeful truth: when breast cancer is found early, before it spreads, treatment is far more likely to succeed.
Many people put off screening because life is busy, they feel fine, or they aren’t sure when they’re supposed to start. Others notice a change and wait, hoping it goes away. This October, we want to make the next step simple. Here’s what every adult in Longview and East Texas should know.
Why “I Feel Fine” Isn’t a Reason to Skip Screening
Early breast cancer usually causes no pain and no symptoms. A screening mammogram can find a tumor years before it can be felt. That’s the whole point of screening: catching something while it’s small, when more treatment options are on the table.
When Should You Start Mammograms?
Guidelines changed recently. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) now recommends that women at average risk begin screening at age 40, earlier than the old recommendation of 50.
| Your situation | General screening guidance |
|---|---|
| Average risk, ages 40–74 | Mammogram every 2 years (USPSTF). Some organizations recommend yearly screening; your doctor can help you choose. |
| Age 75 and older | A personal decision based on your overall health and preferences. Talk it through with your doctor. |
| Higher risk (strong family history, BRCA or other gene changes, prior chest radiation) | Screening may start earlier, happen more often, or include breast MRI. This needs an individual plan. |
| Dense breast tissue | Mammograms can be harder to read. Ask whether additional imaging makes sense for you. |
Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
Screening is for people with no symptoms. If you notice a change, don’t wait for your next routine mammogram. Call your doctor. Most breast changes turn out not to be cancer, but every new change deserves a look.
- A new lump or hard knot in the breast or underarm
- Swelling, warmth, or redness of the breast
- Dimpling or puckering of the skin
- A nipple that turns inward or changes position
- Nipple discharge that isn’t breast milk, especially if bloody
- Scaly, flaky, or irritated skin on the nipple or breast
- A change in the size or shape of the breast
- Pain in one area that doesn’t go away
Know Your Normal
Breasts naturally change with your cycle, age, and weight. Being familiar with how yours usually look and feel makes it easier to spot something new. There’s no need for a rigid monthly routine. Just pay attention and speak up when something seems different.
What Raises Your Risk?
Some risk factors can’t be changed, and some can. Knowing yours helps you and your doctor decide how and when to screen.
Factors You Can’t Change
- Getting older (most breast cancers are found after age 50)
- A mother, sister, or daughter with breast or ovarian cancer, especially at a young age
- Inherited gene changes such as BRCA1 or BRCA2
- Dense breast tissue
- Starting periods early or reaching menopause late
- Prior radiation therapy to the chest
Factors You Can Influence
- Alcohol use (risk rises with the amount)
- Being physically inactive
- Carrying extra weight after menopause
- Some forms of hormone therapy after menopause, which are worth reviewing with your doctor
Men Get Breast Cancer Too
Breast cancer in men is uncommon, making up about 1% of cases, but it does happen. Because men rarely expect it, it’s often found later. Men should report any lump, nipple change, or discharge to their doctor, especially those with a family history of breast cancer or a known BRCA gene change.
How Luckycharm Primary Care Can Help
Your primary care doctor is your starting point for breast health. At Luckycharm, Dr. Uchenne Mbaraonye, D.O. can:
- Review your personal and family history to understand your risk level
- Perform a clinical breast exam during your visit
- Order and coordinate your mammogram or other imaging with trusted imaging centers
- Evaluate any new breast changes and arrange next steps quickly
- Discuss genetic counseling or testing when your history suggests it
- Follow up on your results and keep your screening on schedule year after year
We accept many major insurance plans and offer self-pay and Direct Primary Care membership options. Preventive screening is often covered by insurance. Call us at 903.488.CARE to check your plan.
Make Your Breast Health a Priority This October
Whether you’re due for screening, have a question about your risk, or noticed a change, we’re here to help.
Book an Appointment →This article is for general education and isn’t a substitute for personal medical advice. Screening recommendations vary based on individual risk. If you have symptoms or concerns, contact your healthcare provider.