What You Should Know About Breast Cancer | AFC Urgent Care Memphis

“You beat cancer by how you live, why you live and in the manner in which you live.”—Unknown

Statistics show that around one in eight American women will develop invasive breast cancer at some point during their lifetime.

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, our team at AFC Urgent Care Memphis wants you to learn the symptoms associated with breast cancer, as well as the risk factors so that you can do what you can to lower your risk of breast cancer.

Get the Facts on Breast Cancer

With the exception of skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women living in the United States. Approximately 268,600 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed this year, according to the American Cancer Society.

The following are risk factors associated with breast cancer, including:

  • Excess weight
  • Exposure to radiation
  • Family history of the condition
  • Estrogen exposure
  • Advanced age
  • Sedentary lifestyle or poor diet
  • Previous breast cancer
  • Personal history of other cancers

While some of the aforementioned risk factors cannot be changed, there are some things you can do to help lower your risk for developing breast cancer:

  • Quit smoking.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Be sure to get enough exercise.
  • Limit the use of hormone therapy.

Early Detection Is Key

The key to effective treatment of breast cancer is early diagnosis. That makes it vitally important for women to undergo regular screenings as recommended by their doctor.

While breast-self exams are no longer recommended, you should still keep an eye on your breast health and let your doctor know of any strange symptoms such as:

  • A lump or mass in the breast
  • Swelling of all or part of the breast
  • Nipple retraction
  • Red, scaly or thickened breast skin
  • Nipple discharge
  • Skin irritation or dimpling
  • Breast or nipple pain

You always want to make your health a top priority. Be sure to visit AFC Urgent Care Memphis any time you are in need of medical care. We are here for you seven days a week!