October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to educate the community on the prevalence of breast cancer, the importance of scheduling mammograms, early detection and the lasting impact of a breast cancer diagnosis. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers for women in the United States and accounts for approximately 30% of all new cancers for females each year.
A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray of the breast used to detect breast cancer early, which can lead to less aggressive treatment. Mammograms can often find breast changes that could be cancer years before physical symptoms develop. According to recent guidelines from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), women should begin annual mammograms starting at 40 years old instead of the previously recommended age of 50. However, high-risk women younger than 40 may need to be scanned sooner, depending on their provider’s recommendation. Even women who have no symptoms and no known risks for breast cancer should have regularly scheduled mammograms to help detect potential breast cancer at the earliest possible time.
The recent guideline is a response to rising cancer rates among women in their 40s, as well as evidence that earlier mammograms help save lives. The latest data from the National Cancer Institute reported the rate of breast cancer among women ages 40 to 49 increased by 2% per year, on average, from 2015 to 2019. With the changing landscape and evolving research from studies and clinical trials, experts are updating guidelines to try and stay ahead of the curve when it comes to breast cancer detection.
Breast cancer can affect mental health
While breast cancer is a physical illness, it is also one with a significant mental health impact. There are more than 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. This includes women still being treated and those who have completed treatment. After being diagnosed with breast cancer, people commonly experience many emotions before, during and after treatment. Some people may feel anxious, sad or stressed but find these feelings subside as time passes. However, these feelings can linger for months or even years and begin to affect your daily life sometimes. It is important to remember that no feeling is right or wrong — and there is no right or wrong moment to experience it. Knowing how breast cancer can affect mental health can help people get the support they need.
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), nearly one in every four people diagnosed with breast cancer will experience depression. Taking care of your mental health and well-being after being diagnosed with breast cancer can help improve your quality of life — especially if you are not feeling like yourself anymore. It may be helpful to consider mental health support services if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Sleep disturbances, such as difficulty falling or staying asleep.
- Changes in your overall mood, such as feeling sad, constantly stressed or anxious.
- Lack of joy or interest in activities you normally enjoy.
- Changes in appetite that result in weight loss or gain.
- Difficulty getting out of bed because of a lack of energy and not because of breast cancer treatment side effects.
- Difficulty concentrating or focusing.
- Using alcohol or drugs to reduce stress.
- Noticing an increase in aches and pains, including headaches and stomachaches.
Having breast cancer can be an emotional and traumatizing experience during and after treatment, but having a great support system can help. UHS offers a variety of services for cancer survivorship and support. Our services include dedicated support from oncology social workers, oncology-specific nutrition services from a board-certified dietitian, comprehensive coordination from oncology nurse navigators and referrals to cancer support groups and reputable resources.
It's important to keep up on mammograms to help detect breast cancer early. Breast cancers found during screening exams are more likely to be smaller and less likely to have spread outside the breast, making them easier to treat. You may feel overwhelmed or anxious after being diagnosed with breast cancer. If you have these feelings or experience any of the symptoms previously listed, please consider mental health support services. You are not alone. You can help improve your quality of life by taking care of your mental health and well-being.