What You Need To Know About Breast Cancer
With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we wanted to dive into the details a little bit more. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, affecting millions of people each year. It develops when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor that can spread to other parts of the body. Raising awareness about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer is crucial for early detection, which improves the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer begins in the breast tissue, typically in the ducts or lobules, which are responsible for producing and carrying milk. While it is most common in women, men can also develop breast cancer, though it is far rarer. Breast cancer can be invasive (spreading to nearby tissues) or non-invasive (contained within its original area). There are also several types, including ductal carcinoma and lobular carcinoma, among others.
Signs and Symptoms
It’s important to monitor changes in your breasts, as early signs can sometimes be subtle. Here are common signs and symptoms of breast cancer:
- A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Dimpling or puckering of the skin on the breast
- Nipple discharge (other than breast milk), especially if bloody
- Inversion or pulling in of the nipple
- Redness, swelling, or warmth in the breast
- Persistent pain in the breast or nipple
Not every symptom means cancer, but any unusual changes should be evaluated by a healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Breast Cancer Statistics
Breast cancer is one of the most diagnosed cancers, especially among women. Here are some key statistics:
- In the U.S., around 1 in 8 women (about 12%) will develop breast cancer at some point in their lives.
- Each year, about 300,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S., along with approximately 2,800 men.
- Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death among women, but survival rates are improving due to early detection and advances in treatment.
- When detected early, the 5-year survival rate for localized breast cancer is 99%.
Breast cancer affects millions, but early detection through regular screenings, such as mammograms and self-exams, can save lives. If you notice any changes in your breast, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for evaluation. Spreading awareness and staying proactive about breast health are essential steps in reducing the impact of this disease.
Ready when you need us
Regardless of what type of medical situation you may be facing, Community First ER is here to help. There’s no need to make an appointment, and you won’t have to wait. Our board-certified physicians and nurses will always be ready to see you. We understand that emergencies aren’t always convenient, which is why we do everything we can to make your experience with us as hassle-free as possible. From the moment you arrive at Community First ER to the moment you leave us our compassionate and knowledgeable staff will take care of you or your family member appropriately. If your condition warrants transportation to a local hospital, we can easily arrange this using our ambulance and helipad services. Our 9,000 square foot facility includes an onsite lab, radiology, and imaging services and is equipped to provide adult, pediatric, and adolescent emergency and critical care. We strive to provide the most effective and most efficient medical care in a stress-free and comfortable environment.
We are here to help
At Community First ER, we are committed to providing you the best possible care now and always. With adult and pediatric emergency care available, we have a team of board-certified medical and surgical specialists we consult to help manage our patients and their medical emergencies. We form relationships with local doctors to ensure that our patients have access to the best specialists for their individual needs. You can call ahead and discuss your symptoms at any time.
We are Community First Emergency Room – committed to putting your community, health, and YOU FIRST, every day.
If you are a loved one experiencing an urgent or emergency medical issue, please contact us right away at 281-343-3134.
About Community First ER
Emergency health care is a critical resource. Our commitment is to provide a personal, transparent, and concierge-driven emergency health care experience to our community members. Locally owned and operated by health care providers and partners we trust, we strive to support and create meaningful relationships with those around us. We exist to put your health and wellness first. For more information, visit our website at https://communityfirster.com/ and engage with us on social media!