Legacy Women's Health

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer affects many women

Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer in American women. One in eight women will be diagnosed with this disease in her lifetime. Knowledge of the disease and cancer risk factors, along with screening, are essential elements of a woman’s healthcare.

Breast cancer risk factors

There are many risk factors for this type of cancer. Some are not within a woman’s control, and others she may be able to influence.

Several cancer risk factors cannot be changed.

  • Age – Most women are diagnosed after the age of 50.
  • Genetics – An inherited change (mutation) to genes that would normally prevent cancer (e.g. BRCA1 and BRCA2)
  • Personal history of having the disease
  • Family history of breast or ovarian cancer
  • Dense breast tissue
  • Menstrual history (starting your period before age 12 or beginning menopause after age 55)
  • Radiation to the chest before age 30
  • The good news is that there are also breast cancer risk factors a woman can control.
  • Weight – Women who are overweight have a greater risk.
  • Physical activity level – A low physical activity level correlates to a higher risk.
  • Reproductive history – Not becoming pregnant until after age 30, not breastfeeding, and never having a full-term pregnancy are all associated with a higher risk of this type of cancer.
  • Hormone therapy – Hormone replacement therapy used for symptoms of menopause can increase risk.
  • Alcohol – There is a relationship between drinking alcohol and breast cancer risk. As alcohol intake increases, so does the risk.

Potential symptoms

All women need to know the potential signs and symptoms of breast cancer. Our San Antonio OBGYNs advise women with any of these symptoms to contact their doctors immediately.

  • New lump in the breast or underarm
  • Pain or swelling in any part of the breast
  • Change in the size or shape of the breast
  • Sudden inversion of a nipple
  • Irritation, redness or dimpling in the skin of the breast
  • Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area
  • Discharge from the nipple (other than breastmilk)

Screening and early detection

Screening includes the tests and physical exams used to find cancer in people without symptoms. The purpose of screening is early detection, identifying cancer when it is more treatable.

Mammograms are considered to be the most effective screening tool for early detection. These breast X-rays can identify cancers well before a woman has physical symptoms.

Women who get regular mammograms are more likely to find cancers earlier and have better outcomes from treatment. The guidelines for screening vary based on your personal cancer risk factors. Our San Antonio OBGYNs encourage women to consult with their physicians as to when and how frequently they should get mammograms.

What can you do to decrease your risk?

There are steps you can take to lower your risk for breast cancer.

  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Be physically active.
  • Limit alcohol.
  • Assess your hormone use against the potential risks.
  • Breastfeed, if possible.
  • Know your family medical history on both sides of your family.
  • Discuss your potential cancer risks with your doctor.
  • Have regular mammograms as recommended by your physician.

Knowing your cancer risk factors and being proactive about your health are valuable tools for every woman. Contact Legacy Women’s Health to discuss cancer risks or potential symptoms, or for screening recommendations.