Breast Cancer Q & A
Q: Who is most at risk of developing breast cancer?
A: Although breast cancer has been diagnosed in a wide range of ages — from people in their 20s to people in their 90s — the chances of developing breast cancer increase with age. About 85 percent of cases appear in women 50 or older, and the risk is greatest after age 60. Breast cancer is also more common in Caucasian women than in African-American or Asian women.
Q: Are there other risk factors?
A: few of the factors that increase the risk for breast cancer include: a personal or family history of breast cancer; certain changes to the breast; giving birth for the first time after age 30; drinking alcohol; and smoking.
Q: How can I minimize the risk of developing breast cancer?
A: Avoid behavioral risks, such as smoking. Tell your doctor about any risk factors you may have and ask when you should begin routine screenings. Women should examine their breasts every month for lumps or changes and should have a clinical breast exam by a medical practitioner every year. Talk to your doctor about when to begin regular mammograms, which can detect growths an average of one-and-a-half years before they are large enough to be felt with the hand. Both the American Cancer Society and the Society of Breast Imaging recommend annual screening mammograms starting at age 40 for women with no risk factors and earlier for women with a personal or family history of breast cancer or other risk factors.
Q: What is a mammogram?
A: A mammogram is a special X-ray for the breast. It can detect very small growths, including clusters of calcium deposits, which may be early signs of cancer.
Q: Should a woman who has had breast implants have mammograms?
A: Yes, Let the radiologist know in advance that you have implants, which can hide some tissue.
Q:Can a man get breast cancer?
A: Yes, about 1,000 American men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. However, the number is relatively low and doctors generally do not recommend that men have routine breast screenings.
- Information and Support in the Fight Against Breast Cancer
- For More Information Regarding Breast Cancer, Visit Our Health Library.
Questions answered by Mary Hayes, MD, Medical Director at the Breast Center at Memorial Regional Hospital.