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October Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

en.wikipedia.org

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Oneida County Public Health Nurse Charlotte Ahrens says the disease is widespread...

"....excluding cancer of the skin, breast cancer is the most common cancer among U.S. women, accounting for 29 percent of newly-diagnosed cancers. A woman in the U.S. has a 1 in 8 lifetime risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer...."

She says with people living longer, changes in reproductive patterns, menopausal hormone use, the rise in the number of obese people, and increased detection through screening has led to the increase in reported cases. She says screening is the best way to detect growths early...

"....there very simple breast x-rays, they do involve compression. There is some slight discomfort for a few seconds. They're quick easy and safe. Mammography uses less radiation that the typical dental X-Ray...."

Ahrens says women should have yearly mammograms beginning at age 40. She says all women should check their breasts each month beginning at age 20. Ahrens says the new health care act allows for no cost screenings...

"......through the Affordable Health Care Act, it requires private insurers cover mammogram screenings with no cost sharing, with no cost to the women, and it should be covered every one to two years starting at the age of 40...."

While rare, breast cancer does occur in men. About 2.500 men are expected to get breast cancer this year. Contact your health provider or local county health department for more information.

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