Taking care of your breast health is an important part of taking care of your body. Knowing what is normal for you and talking with a healthcare provider if something changes can help you stay healthy.
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer happens when cells in the breast grow out of control. These cells can form a lump or cause other changes in the breast.
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women in the United States. It can happen to anyone, even people with no family history of breast cancer.
Did you know? Mammograms can help find breast cancer early, sometimes before you notice symptoms or changes in your breasts.
What tests may be needed?
Your healthcare provider can help decide which tests are right for you based on your age, family history, and health needs.
Mammograms
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast that can help find breast cancer early, sometimes before changes can be felt.
The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends mammograms every other year for women ages 40 to 74.
Breast exams
A healthcare provider may check your breasts during a routine visit to look for lumps or other changes.
Extra tests
Some people may need extra tests, such as an ultrasound or breast MRI, depending on their health history or any changes they notice.
Common myths about mammograms and breast cancer
“If I don’t feel a lump, I don’t need a mammogram.”
Breast cancer may not cause changes right away. Mammograms can sometimes find cancer before a lump can be felt.
“Mammograms expose you to dangerous radiation.”
Radiation is part of everyday life. Small amounts of natural radiation come from the sun, the ground, and even airplane travel. Mammograms use a low dose of radiation that is considered safe for routine screening.
“Mammograms are always painful.”
Some people feel mild discomfort for a few seconds, but many say the test is quicker and easier than expected.
“Only people with a family history get breast cancer.”
Many people diagnosed with breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease.
“If I feel healthy, I do not need testing.”
Testing is important even if you feel healthy and have no symptoms.
Get familiar with your breasts
Women are encouraged to practice breast self-awareness. This means knowing the normal look and feel of your breasts and paying attention to any changes.
You do not need to do a complicated exam. The most important thing is noticing what is normal for your body.
Look in the mirror
Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and your arms at your sides. Look for:
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Swelling
- Skin dimpling or puckering
- Redness or rash
- Changes to the nipple
Then raise your arms overhead and look again.
Pay attention to changes
Talk with a healthcare provider if you notice:
- A new lump
- Skin dimpling
- Nipple discharge
- Breast swelling
- Pain that does not go away
- Changes in breast size or shape
Many breast changes are normal. The important thing is noticing what feels different for you.
Remember: breasts can change naturally.
Many breast changes are normal. The important thing is noticing what feels different for you.
Breasts can change during certain times of the month, during pregnancy, with aging, or because of hormone changes.
These changes are often normal.
How to get a mammogram referral through Marathon Health
If you are due for a mammogram, notice changes in your breasts, or have questions, Marathon Health can help guide you through the next steps.
A Marathon Health provider can:
- Talk with you about your health history
- Answer questions about breast cancer testing
- Help decide if you are due for a mammogram
- Provide a referral if needed
- Help coordinate follow-up care
Scheduling an appointment is a simple step you can take to care for your health.
Small healthy habits can support breast health
Helpful habits include:
- Staying active
- Eating balanced meals
- Limiting alcohol
- Avoiding smoking
- Managing stress
- Keeping up with healthcare visits and routine testing
Small steps over time can make a difference.
You are not alone
If you notice a change or have questions about your breast health, we are here for you.
Talking with your Marathon Health provider can help you understand your options and feel more confident about your next steps.
Paying attention to changes and keeping up with regular mammograms are important ways to care for your health.
Sources:
American Cancer Society. (2024). Breast cancer early detection and diagnosis. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). What is breast cancer screening? https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cancer/screening/index.html
United States Preventive Services Task Force. (2024). Breast cancer: Screening. https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/breast-cancer-screening
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2022). Breast self-awareness. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/breast-self-awareness
National Cancer Institute. (2023). Breast cancer screening (PDQ®)–Patient version. https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/patient/breast-screening-pdq
