It’s never too early to think about breast cancer prevention

By Elissa Thorner, MHS& Patient AdvocateCare+WearSeven key things to know about breast cancer awareness for early detection are:Know Your Family History – Ask your family about any history of cancer. Find out if anyone in your family has had cancer and, if so, what types and at what age they were diagnosed. Family history plays a critical role in assessing your own risk. Know Your Medical Provider – Establish a good relationship with a gynecologist, family doctor or internist who is familiar with your body, individual risk factors and screening recommendations. Open communication is essential for timely and effective care. Know Your Body – Be familiar with how your breasts feel, especially if you’re premenopausal, as they may change throughout the month. Report any changes such as new lumps, bumps, nipple discharge or chest rashes to your health care provider. Know Your Gynecological History – Menarche (the start of menstruation) before age 12 or menopause after age 55 increases your risk of breast cancer. It’s important to share your reproductive history with your doctor. Know the Screening Recommendations – For women at average risk of breast cancer, mammograms are recommended every two years between the ages of 40 and 74....