October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Are you aware that breast cancer is the most common cancer among women and second most cause of cancer deaths? Typically, most breast cancer occurs in females over the age of 50, but women under 50, and even men, need to be aware of symptoms and risk factors. Below are some typical symptoms of breast cancer. Should you have any of these symptoms, consult your primary care provider as soon as possible. Remember that some people may experience different symptoms or none at all!

• Any lumps, knots or thickening inside the breast or underarm area
• Changes to the size or shape of the breast, including dimpling
• Itchy, scaly sore or rash on or pulling in of the nipple
• Any pain in the breast area
• Any discharge from the breast that starts suddenly, except breast milk
• Swelling, warmth, redness or darkening of the breast.

According to Dr. Jane Mendez, Chief of Breast Surgery at Miami Cancer Institute, “It is important to underscore the importance of knowing your body, knowing your risk factors and family history specially as we continue to resume screening practices post COVID-19 pandemic. We have noticed an increase in advanced stages of breast cancer as many women have not complied with the screening recommendation. Early detection is key in order to cure breast cancer and to achieve better outcomes.” The CDC advises that women of average risk should begin mammography screening at the age of 50. Screening mammograms can find breast cancer early, as much as 10 years before you or your doctor could detect it. Discuss your health history with both sides of your family. If you have any risk factors, such as carrying the gene for breast cancer or especially having a mother or sister that was diagnosed with breast cancer, you are considered to be at higher risk and you should consult your primary care provider to determine how soon you should begin mammograms, MRIs or genetic counseling. Many health insurance providers today provide coverages for these screenings, procedures, and genetic counseling. The types of insurance most important for those with breast cancer are health insurance, which covers some or most of your medical costs; disability insurance, which provides income to you or your family if you are unable to work or keep working during or after treatment and long term care insurance, which covers help you may need if you are unable to care for yourself and perform several activities of daily living. Consider the many ways you could lower your risk for breast cancer:

• Minimize your alcohol intake or don’t drink at all
• Maintain a healthy weight and diet
• Have a regular exercise regimen
• Consult with your doctor about the risks of using birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy
• Breastfeed, if possible

Take charge of your health and know your body. Regular breast self-examinations, breast cancer screening and MRIs alone cannot prevent breast cancer, but they can detect breast cancer early when it is best treatable. Review your health insurance plan with your insurance advisor and talk to your health care provider about when you should begin your breast cancer screenings and/or genetic consultations. Call us today at (561)689-1000, Ext. 103 to speak with one of our advisors to review your coverage.