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Regular mammograms are your best defense.
With so much focus on our weight, our diet, and our exercise habits, it's easy to forget about something like our breast health. That's why National Breast Cancer Awareness Month was created. It takes place every October, and its goal is to encourage women to take advantage of breast cancer screenings. That means now is a great time to learn how to protect yourself from breast cancer.
Recently, the American Cancer Society (ACS) revised its guidelines for breast cancer screenings. The ACS still recommends yearly mammograms for all women age 40 and older. A baseline mammogram for women between the ages of 35 and 39 is also recommended. However, "Women and doctors need to understand that we are more confident than ever in the benefits of mammography," said Debbie Saslow, Ph.D., director of breast and gynecologic cancers for the American Cancer Society. "The benefit is particularly clear for women in their 40s. We have much more evidence, and much more convincing evidence, that those women benefit."
The ACS still advises women get a clinical breast exam every year from age 40 on. However, one big change is that breast self-exams (BSEs) are now seen as "optional." That's because the evidence hasn't shown that BSE helps reduce deaths from breast cancer.
Even so, women should become familiar with their breast health. The BSE is a way to learn the "landscape" of their breasts. The emphasis is on self-awareness, Saslow said. "When it comes to self-detection, we want women to be aware of what their breasts normally feel like and look like, to be attuned to any change, and to bring any change to the attention of their doctor right away."
Other screening changes involve guidelines for older women and women at higher risk for breast cancer. All women should ask their doctors what these new guidelines mean for their care.
The information provided is intended to help you make informed decisions. The Genworth Financial companies do not provide medical information, advice or recommendations. Consult your physician before making major changes in your lifestyle or health care regimen. Please note that Wellness partners, their products, services, and offers may change over time.
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