Transcript Are you Breast Cancer Aware?

Many college-aged students are unaware of the possibility of
developing breast cancer as a young adult. Many changes occur
in your breasts during your lifetime so it is important to
understand which changes are normal and which are not. Also,
some of us may be at a higher risk for developing breast cancer.
We encourage you to become familiar with your breasts, know
what is normal for you, and learn how to spot changes in your
breasts.
• Many factors are linked to breast cancer risk, such as drinking
alcohol, having a family history of breast cancer, or genetic
conditions.
• Having a risk factor—or even several—doesn’t mean you’ll
definitely get the disease—it just increases your chances.
• Understanding which factors may affect your risk can help you
and your health care provider develop a breast health plan
that is right for you.
Who gets breast cancer?
Anyone can get breast cancer.
For example, did you know…
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The older a woman is, the more likely she is to get breast cancer.
Although it is rare, young women in their 20s and 30s can and do
get breast cancer.
White women are more likely to get breast cancer than any other
racial or ethnic group.
Men can get breast cancer. 1 in 100 cases of breast cancer will occur
in a man.
Increased risk – not due to orientation – but rather increased
risk factors, such as:
•Limited routine screening due to possible healthcare
barriers/stigma
•Less likely to have children – therefore less
preventative/routine women’s health screenings
•Breastfeeding reduces risk of breast cancer –therefore not
having children/not breastfeeding could increase risk
Can I prevent breast cancer?
Because no one knows exactly what causes it, there are no SURE ways to prevent
breast cancer. However, the following may help to reduce your risk:
•Maintaining a healthy weight , regular exercise,
& a nutritious diet
•Breastfeeding
•Limiting our exposure to estrogen,
alcohol, and smoke
A Breast Exam can be done by you or your
clinician and should start at age 20.
Examining your breasts will help you to
become familiar with what is normal for you
and learn how to spot changes in your
breasts that may need to be reported to a
doctor.
VISIT OUR
WEBSITE
http://www.health.umd.edu/clinicalservices/womenshealth/breasthealth