From the Georgia Department of Public Health’s South Health District

VALDOSTA – October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the Georgia Department of Public Health’s South Health District is emphasizing the critical importance of early detection in saving lives. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the U.S., with approximately 264,000 cases diagnosed each year. While breast cancer can occur in both men and women, it is much more common in women, with around 42,000 women losing their lives to breast cancer annually.

To help combat these statistics, South Health District offers breast cancer screenings and education through its Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (BCCP). This program provides free or low-cost clinical breast exams, pelvic exams, pap smears, and mammogram referrals to uninsured or underinsured women aged 40 to 64 who meet income guidelines and are Georgia residents.

“Early detection is key when it comes to treating breast cancer,” said Missy Sims, R.N., Women’s Health Coordinator. “At public health we are dedicated to ensuring that all women have access to screenings, regardless of income or insurance status.”

Risk factors for breast cancer

For individuals uncertain about their risk, the CDC outlines several factors that can increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer:

• Age: Risk increases with age; most diagnoses occur after age 50.
• Genetic Mutations: Inherited mutations in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 heighten the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
• Reproductive History: Starting menstruation early (before age 12) or going through menopause late (after age 55) prolongs exposure to estrogen, increasing breast cancer risk.
• Dense Breasts: Dense breast tissue can obscure tumors on mammograms and raises breast cancer risk.
• Personal or Family History: Women with a personal history of breast cancer or certain non-cancerous breast diseases are at higher risk. Additionally, having a first-degree relative with breast cancer doubles the risk.

While the exact causes of breast cancer remain unknown, early detection and a healthy lifestyle can help reduce risk.

Tips for lowering your risk

Though not all cases of breast cancer are preventable, the CDC recommends the following steps to help lower your risk:

• Regular physical activity
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Discussing the risks of hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives with your doctor
• Breastfeeding, if possible
• Talking with your doctor about preventive options if you have a family history of breast cancer or genetic mutations

Get screened

If you are a woman between the ages of 40 and 64 and lack health insurance or the financial means for a mammogram, you may be eligible for free screenings through the South Health District’s BCCP. To learn more, contact your local health department or visit our website at www.southhealthdistrict.com/BCCP.

Remember: Early detection is your best protection.

For more information about South Health District’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Program, contact your local health department.