Breast Care at Arnot Health
More women in the United States are diagnosed with breast cancer every year than with any other cancer except skin cancer. Many lives can be saved by early diagnosis.
Arnot Health strives to increase awareness about breast cancer through education and early detection. And can offer breast health programs to the community upon request.
In order to detect cancer at the early stages, it is recommended to have a physician's examination, every three years beginning at age 20, and annually, starting at age 40 along with an annual mammogram, beginning at age 40.
Warning signs of breast cancer include:
- A lump or thickening in the breast.
- Skin dimpling or puckering on either breast.
- Any changes in the shape, texture, or color of the skin.
- A nipple that has become inverted, or looks pushed in.
- Discharge from the nipples which expresses involuntarily.
- Localized breast pain, not related to the hormonal cycle.
Risk Factors
As a woman ages, her risk increases. Among all women with breast cancer, 75 percent show no risk factors other than gender and age. According to the American Cancer Society, estrogen appears to be a key factor in breast cancer risk. First menstruation at an early age, pregnancy after age 30 or not at all, and late onset of menopause have been shown to be related to increased risk of breast cancer.
Other risk factors include:
- Personal history of breast cancer
- Family history of breast cancer, especially in a first-degree relative such as mother, sister, or daughter
- Personal history of breast biopsy showing atypical cells
- Obesity
- Excessive use of alcohol
- Personal history of benign breast biopsy
- Excessive amount of fat in diet
Treatment of Cancer
Tremendous strides have been made in the treatment of breast cancer. The treatment choice is guided primarily by the stage of the cancer, but there are also personal considerations for each patient. In addition to learning as much as you can about your treatment options, you may want to seek a second medical opinion or attend one of our support groups to talk to women who have already undergone these treatments.
Once you have been diagnosed, we will help you work with the Falck Cancer Center at Arnot Health to understand your treatment options. There are medical, radiation and surgical options, such as Radiation Therapy, Chemotherapy, Hormone Therapy, Mastectomy, Lumpectomy and Reconstructive Surgery.
