Breast cancer only affects women. Although rare, men can

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CANCER AWARENESS

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MCS ~ Breast cancer occurs when there is rapid growth of mutated (cancerous) cells in the tissues of the breasts, and potentially in the surrounding skin and lymph nodes. Various factors contribute to the development of cancer, including genetics, gender, environmental exposure to certain materials, and lifestyle choices like diet and exercise.

While there are steps women can take to lower their risk of developing breast cancer, there is no way to completely prevent the disease. Even preventative surgical removal of the breasts, known as prophylactic mastectomy, cannot eliminate every breast cell, leaving open the possibility that breast cancer can develop. The Siteman Cancer Center reminds people that these strategies can help to lower breast cancer risk as much as possible: • Limit alcohol consumption, or do not drink at all. • Maintain a healthy weight. • Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. • Breastfeed, if possible. • Don’t smoke, as smoking is related to the formation of 15 different cancers. • Engage in regular exercise, aiming for at least 30 minutes per day. • Avoid hormone contraceptive products, particularly after the age of 35, and weigh the pros and cons of hormonal menopause treatment. • Schedule and undergo regular mammograms. • Speak with a doctor about your family history of breast cancer and take added precautions if there is a significant family history and/or genetic factors that make you more vulnerable.

Breast cancer is prolific. Although the disease is not entirely preventable, there are many ways for women to reduce their risk of developing it.

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BREASt CANCER mytHS

NT ~ October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month in America. Although more people are surviving a breast cancer diagnosis than ever before, it’s still the most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death among American women. Therefore, it’s important to know the facts. Here are five breast cancer myths.

1. Only people with a family history of breast cancer are at

risk. Only about five to 10 percent of breast cancers are considered hereditary.

2. Breast cancer only affects women. Although rare, men can get breast cancer too. In 2022, about 2,710 American men are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer, and 530 will die from the disease.

3. Antiperspirants and deodorants cause breast cancer. There’s no conclusive evidence linking the use of antiperspirants or deodorants and the development of breast cancer.

4. Breast cancer always causes a lump you can feel. Although regular breast self-exams can help detect lumps, breast cancer doesn’t always manifest itself this way. Other symptoms include pain, swelling, redness and thickening of the skin.

5. All breast cancers are treated the same way. Breast cancer treatment plans vary widely depending on the characteristics of the tumor, the stage of cancer and the patient’s preferences.

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, donate to help create a world where no American fears breast cancer.