Most people know that Breast Cancer is one of the top cancers diagnosed in women as 1 in 8 women are diagnosed within their lifetime. But there are plenty of other facts that everyone should be aware of.
- Men can be diagnosed, too: Although it is 100 times more prevalent in women, men can be diagnosed with breast cancer, as well. While women have a 1 in 8 chance of being diagnosed, men have a 1 in 1,000 chance with about 2,600 diagnoses annually. With 95% of all breast cancer cases in the United States being in women, some may think that men just don’t get it.
- Death Rates are Declining: With the rates of diagnoses declining since 1990, there are currently over 2.5 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. Doctors credit earlier detection and improved treatment for the decline in diagnoses and death rates.
- Breastfeeding may reduce risk: Recent research is showing that women who breastfeed for a year or more have a reduced risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer. The approximate risk reduction is 4. 3% per 12 months of breast-feeding.
- You Can Control Some Risk Factors: Although there is no proven way to prevent Breast Cancer, there are plenty of things everyone can do to control the risk factors in their life that could lead to a diagnoses. Starting with exercise, healthy diet, and avoiding tobacco, there are many things people can do to potentially reduce their risk.
- There are warning signs: Everyone should pay attention to gradual or sudden changes in their bodies. When it comes to breast cancer, aside from getting annual mammograms, there are warning signs one can notice prior to their annual check up. While the warning signs are not the same in everyone, symptoms such as nipple discharge, new lumps, or changes to the breast or nipple can be indicators that should not be ignored. Being familiar with one’s body is important to noticing changes and taking advantage of preventative medicine.
