Acknowledging Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October marks National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an opportunity and a call to reflect on the latest research and deepen understanding of this pervasive disease. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the US, with approximately 1 in 8 women (13.1%) expected to receive a breast cancer diagnosis, and 1 in 43 (2.3%) expected to die from the disease in 2024. Breast cancer is not limited to women; approximately 2,790 cases will be diagnosed in men, with 530 male fatalities from breast cancer in 2024. These staggering rates highlight the significance of early detection and the need for ongoing research and screening education.  

The most common sign of breast cancer is a painless lump in the breast or underarm lymph nodes, often without accompanying symptoms, and is easily treated. Additional signs and symptoms may include breast pain or heaviness, dimpling, swelling, thickening, redness, and nipple changes or discharge. Breast cancer is classified based on several factors, including the stage at diagnosis, microscopic appearance, and molecular features. The staging of breast cancer is particularly important, as it helps determine the extent and spread of disease, informing disease outcome and guiding treatment options. 

The Role of Screening 

Mammography screening is essential for early cancer detection. The US Preventative Services Task Force recommends that women who are 40 to 74 years old and are at average risk for breast cancer get a mammogram every 2 years. For many women, mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early, before a tumor is big enough to feel or cause symptoms. For women at high risk, a breast MRI is used along with mammograms for screenings. Disparities in mammography screening are most prevalent among racial/ethnic minority groups and low-income women. The significant breast cancer mortality rates experienced in both Hispanic and African American populations are found to be connected to delayed screening.  

Managing Symptoms and Adverse Effects 

High quality, patient-centered care is essential for improving the overall well-being of breast cancer patients. Addressing side effects is a high priority, as they can significantly impact quality of life. While breast cancer treatment is required and helpful in most cases, each type of treatment can cause both temporary and long-term side effects. Chemotherapy, one of the most common treatments for breast cancer, includes side effects such as hair loss, mouth sores, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, difficulty with memory and concentrating, and more. It is essential for the health care team to prepare patients about the side effects and provide options to manage them.  

Breast cancer supportive therapy includes a wide variety of services to help patients manage issues surrounding a cancer diagnosis, including:

• Symptom management: Strategies to alleviate side effects like nausea and pain 
• Education: Providing information about treatment options, what to expect, and self-care practices 
• Psychosocial support: Counseling and support groups to help cope with emotional challenges 
• Rehabilitation services: Addressing other health issues, like lymphedema, through physical therapy 

By integrating these services into treatment plans, health care providers can enhance patient experiences and outcomes. When breast cancer patients have symptoms and emotional distress under control, they may be more likely to be able to complete treatments. Encouraging regular screenings and open discussions about risk factors can play a critical role in saving lives. This month serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing need for encouraging patients to take proactive steps in their breast health and education.