Piensa en rosa este octubre: genera conciencia sobre el cáncer de mama

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers for women in the United States. Every year, about 270,000 women get breast cancer and 42,000 women die from the disease.

Cancer starts when cells in the breast grow too fast and get out of control. These bad cells can spread to other parts of the body and cause harm or even death. Finding cancer early and getting treatment can help people live longer.

Both women and men can get breast cancer. However, studies show that some women are more likely to get it. It can happen at any age, but the risk is higher for women over 50.

Other risk factors include genetic changes (BRCA1 or BRCA2) or having family members with breast or ovarian cancer. Lifestyle choices can raise the risk. These risks can include drinking alcohol, smoking, being overweight, not being active and not eating a healthy diet.

Every woman should know the signs of breast cancer and what she can do to help lower her risk.

Signs to watch for include: 

• A new lump in the breast or underarm.
• Changes in breast size or shape.
• Pain in any area of the breast.
• Nipple discharge (other than breast milk), including blood.

The best way to find breast cancer early is by getting regular mammograms or breast exams. The chance of recovery is better when the cancer is small, hasn't spread and might be easier to treat.

Other things you can do to lower your risk:

• Tell your doctor about any changes in your breasts.
• Know your family history.
• Stay active with regular exercise.
• Eat healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Limit alcohol and avoid smoking.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program*. It offers free or low-cost breast exams to women who qualify.

_{*The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is an independent organization that provides health information you may find helpful. This link leads to a CDC website. The CDC is responsible for the contents and privacy policy on its site}

Healthy Blue members should consider a no-cost breast exam at least every two years from ages 50 to 74. Healthy Blue covers these screenings as part of our preventive health guidelines. Ask your doctor for advice on when you should get one.

Members who get a breast cancer screening may be eligible for a $25 Healthy Reward. As a Healthy Blue member, you may qualify for Healthy Rewards gift cards just for completing healthy activities such as a breast exam. You may start receiving Healthy Rewards gift cards 91 days after you become a Healthy Blue member.

For women who have had breast cancer, Healthy Blue covers breast prosthetic devices for members who have had mastectomies and qualify. Members may also get support from our care management program. Any member can join and get no-cost health care help from nurses, diabetes educators, health coaches and other behavioral health professionals.

Our community health workers can also offer face-to-face meetings where you live, work or receive care. These team members will guide you through the healthcare system. They can connect you with the local resources you may need. Visit our Community Health Workers page to find out more.

For more information about women’s health and wellness, see the Healthy Blue blog article, “An Apple a Day."