HEALTHY LIVING WITH JANICE--BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Health editor Janice Kerr talks about warning signs today. -- AP

Thanks, Anastasia. Most people think of breast cancer as something that strikes middle-aged women, but breast cancer can strike anyone, including women in their early twenties. For that reason, all women should have a yearly breast exam by their gynecologist or internist and do routine monthly self-examinations. According to the Mayo Clinic, signs and symptoms of breast cancer may include the following:

• A breast lump or thickening that feels different from the surrounding tissue
• Bloody discharge from the nipple
• Change in the size or shape of a breast
• Changes to the skin over the breast, such as dimpling
• Inverted nipple
• Peeling or flaking of the nipple skin
• Redness or pitting of the skin over your breast, like the skin of an orange

If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, make an appointment to see your doctor immediately. And if you’re 40 years old or older, start getting mammograms. Speak with your doctor to determine how often you should have a mammogram. Age and family history are factors.

Mammograms save lives. They’re not the most comfortable thing in the world, but that few seconds of discomfort might just save your life. Too many women put off getting mammograms because they fear the procedure. This is not a case of what you don’t know can’t hurt you. When it comes to breast cancer, what you don’t know can kill you. By the time you feel a lump, it may have been growing for several years and might already have metastasized. Early detection is key. So do yourself and your family a favor -- make an appointment for a mammogram today.

Thanks so much, Janice! You may have saved a life today. 


Readers, remember to post a comment to the blog this week, and you're automatically entered in a drawing for a free book from our Book Club Friday guest author.-- AP