AdventHealth Avista Aiding in the Fight Against Breast Cancer

While most people are busy buying cozy sweaters and decorating for Halloween, there’s something else we can all add to our to-do list this October: get an annual mammogram or encourage someone in our life to get one. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and brings each of us an opportunity to prioritize breast health.

One in eight women born in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives. Approximately 297,920 women will be diagnosed this year alone. When it comes to beating breast cancer, early detection is key. The American Cancer Society says if it is detected early and is localized, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%.

It is easy to brush off getting an annual mammogram – but is often a life saving measure that is quick and easy. We sat down with AdventHealth Avista Breast Radiologist, Dr. Tara Tredennick, to ask her some common questions around breast cancer.

Why is breast cancer awareness month important? “Breast cancer awareness month reaches a wide audience of women who might not otherwise know that annual screening mammograms detect breast cancer at an early stage when it is treatable. Women don’t need a doctor’s order to get one and it is 100% covered with insurance. It also reminds women if they haven’t had a mammogram for more than a year that it is time to get one.”

What are signs and symptoms women should look for during self-breast exams? “It is difficult to do self-breast exams because breast tissue, by nature, is lumpy. It is important for women to know that if they question anything about how their breasts feel to tell their doctor so they can get a mammogram and ultrasound of the area of concern. It is important not to wait and see. In addition to a hard lump, clear or bloody nipple discharge, skin thickening or redness, should also be brought to the attention of a breast specialist.”

Are there any trends you’re seeing in younger patients? “Yes, we are diagnosing more young women, mostly in their 40s, thanks to better imaging, awareness for more screening in high-risk women, and awareness that breast cancer is treatable if found early. Premenopausal women tend to have more aggressive cancer than postmenopausal (>55) women when it is often slower growing.”

Do you have any tips that could potentially help prevent breast cancer? “Not smoking, maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle, and adhering to a wholesome diet are all important to prevent cancer of any type. Yearly mammograms are key for early detection.”

What are some ways you’ve seen loved ones support women affected with breast cancer? “Loved ones and female friends support one another by encouraging each other to get mammograms, allay their anxiety while they are waiting for a result from a biopsy, accompany them to appointments for support, and provide a positive outlook that the affected woman will come out stronger on the other side after treatment has concluded.”

Excluding skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. The Breast Care Center at AdventHealth Avista offers convenient, comprehensive breast care. Schedule your mammogram today by calling: 303-673-1233 or schedule online at: AdventHealth.com/Avista