Five Effective Steps to Support Breast Cancer Awareness

Oct 30

Dr. Libby Joffe and Dr. Zhanna Branovan, board-certified internal medicine physicians at Advanced Internal Medicine of North Jersey, discuss the importance of early breast cancer detection in honor of October's Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is not only about spreading awareness but also about taking proactive steps to protect our health and that of our loved ones. This month is a reminder of the importance of vigilance, particularly for women of all ages and backgrounds. In this guide, you’ll find practical ways to support awareness, educate yourself, and make health-conscious choices that matter.

Step 1: Start the Conversation

The first step is often the hardest—starting a meaningful conversation about breast cancer. Open discussions about breast cancer, especially focusing on the two main risk factors, being a woman and aging, can encourage those around you to take breast health seriously. Addressing these topics breaks the misconception that breast cancer affects only those with a family history, making it clear that it’s a relevant health concern for all women.

Understanding Breast Cancer Risk Factors

Breast cancer is a health issue that can impact any woman. While some women are at higher risk, it’s vital for everyone to be informed. Age and family history are two significant risk factors, but genetic mutations and lifestyle choices can also increase risk. For instance, many assume family history is a primary factor, but only 5-10% of breast cancer cases are hereditary. Educating others on these broader risk factors can help dismantle myths and highlight the importance of routine screenings, which brings us to the next essential step.

Step 2: Promote Regular Screenings

Regular screenings, especially mammograms, are a cornerstone of early breast cancer detection. Encouraging women to prioritize regular mammograms and stay informed about the benefits of early detection can make a meaningful difference. By promoting screenings, you’re supporting awareness that can save lives, as mammograms can detect abnormalities long before symptoms are noticeable.

The Power of Early Detection

Early detection significantly improves treatment success rates. In addition to mammograms, self-exams are helpful for recognizing changes, though they’re not a substitute for professional screenings. Annual clinical exams by healthcare professionals add another layer of protection, ensuring any health concerns are addressed promptly. This proactive approach aligns with the awareness goals of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, reinforcing the importance of regular check-ups and early action.

Step 3: Dispel Myths about Hereditary Breast Cancer

It’s a common misconception that breast cancer only poses a threat to those with a family history of the disease. In reality, the majority of cases are not hereditary. Addressing this myth with those around you reinforces that breast cancer is a broader concern. Helping people understand that anyone can develop breast cancer encourages them to make screenings a regular part of their health routine, regardless of family background.

Step 4: Advocate for Healthy Lifestyle Choices

While some risk factors like age and genetics are beyond our control, lifestyle choices are areas where we can take action. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and limiting alcohol consumption can help reduce breast cancer risk. Promoting these habits within your community—at work, among friends, or on social media—encourages others to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

Taking Control Through Lifestyle Choices

While we can’t change genetic factors, healthy lifestyle choices are impactful. Research supports that a balanced diet, regular exercise, and reduced alcohol intake can lower breast cancer risk. Smokers should also be encouraged to quit, as smoking increases risk. By focusing on what we can control, we’re better able to support long-term breast health.

Step 5: Educate on Symptom Awareness

Symptom awareness is a vital aspect of breast cancer education. While self-exams are helpful, they should not be solely relied upon. Breast cancer does not always present symptoms, so it’s crucial to emphasize the importance of clinical exams and mammograms. Educating others on the value of comprehensive screening supports a proactive, well-rounded approach to breast health.

Important Breast Cancer Facts

Breast cancer remains a significant concern, with one in eight women in the U.S. projected to receive a diagnosis during her lifetime.

Contrary to popular belief, 85% of breast cancer cases occur in women with no family history of the disease, primarily due to genetic mutations from aging and other factors.
While rare, men are not exempt—about 1 in 833 men will develop breast cancer at some point.
The effectiveness of mammograms cannot be overstated, as they have the capability to detect breast cancer early, sometimes up to three years before a tumor can be physically felt.
Genetic factors, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, account for only 5-10% of all breast cancer cases.
Engaging in regular exercise is more beneficial than many realize, reducing breast cancer risk by 10-20%.
It is crucial to understand that while self-exams play a role in detection, they should not replace regular mammograms and clinical exams.
Generally, it is advised to begin annual mammograms at age 40, but those with higher risk factors should consider starting sooner.
While October is designated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the efforts to raise awareness and encourage preventative measures should remain active throughout the year to achieve the greatest impact.

Getting Involved During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October offers numerous ways to spread awareness, and incorporating each of the five steps is a meaningful way to support the cause. Whether you’re joining local events, organizing fundraisers, or sharing information on social media, every effort counts. Bringing people together around awareness initiatives makes a collective difference and reinforces a supportive community for those affected by breast cancer.

Building a Supportive Community

Creating a supportive community is essential for those impacted by breast cancer. If you’re a survivor, consider sharing your story to inspire others and offer hope. If you’re a friend or family member, being present, listening, and encouraging healthy routines or screenings can make a world of difference.

Extending Awareness Beyond October

While October highlights the importance of breast cancer awareness, efforts shouldn’t end there. Encouraging others to continue learning, scheduling regular screenings, and maintaining healthy lifestyles year-round supports a community that prioritizes breast health throughout the year.

Conclusion: Taking Action for a Healthier Future

Breast Cancer Awareness Month calls us to take charge of our health by understanding risk factors, promoting early detection, and making healthy lifestyle choices. By implementing these five steps, we contribute to a future where breast cancer is caught early and treated successfully. Let’s take action—share knowledge, schedule screenings, and support the fight against breast cancer. Every proactive step we take brings us closer to a healthier future.

For more personalized advice, consider booking a consultation with Dr. Libby Joffe or Dr. Zhanna Branovan, who can help you tailor a screening plan that fits your needs. Together, we can promote a healthier future for all women.