Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in American women after skin cancer. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, 1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer in her lifetime. Our genes, lifestyle, and the environment work together to increase or decrease our risk of getting cancer. Although not as common, men can also get breast cancer.
Well Woman Health Checks
Women should get a Well Woman Health Check every year which should include a clinical breast exam and pelvic exam. If any unusual symptoms or changes in your breasts occur before your scheduled visit, do not hesitate to contact your doctor. All Canyonlands Healthcare locations provide Well Woman Health Checks and screenings for cervical (HVP) cancer.
Make an appointment for your annual Wellness Exam with your Primary Care provider. Call 1-877-645-9675
Early Detection with Mammograms
In the early stages of breast cancer, a lump is hard to detect. For this reason, mammograms are recommended. Women age 40 and above should talk to their doctors about when and how often to get a mammogram.
Reduce Your Risk
- Quit smoking. According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), smoking is a significant risk factor for breast and many other types of cancer. Non-smokers are at lower risk than smokers regardless of your age or how long you have been a smoker.
- Reduce or quit drinking alcohol.
- Exercise more. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can also lower your risk factors.
- Follow a healthy eating pattern.
- Think carefully about using hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Learn more about the effects of HRT here.
Being overweight increases breast cancer risk, especially after menopause. Recent updates to the American Cancer Society Guideline for Diet and Physical Activity recommend getting at least 150-300 minutes of moderate intensity or 75-150 minutes of vigorous intensity activity each week.
Studies show that Hormone Replacement Therapy HRT using a combination of estrogen and progestin increases the risk of breast cancer. This combination can also lead to increased breast density making it harder to find breast cancer on mammogram. The good news is that within 3 years of stopping the hormones the risk returns to that of a woman who has not used HRT.
Make an appointment for your annual Wellness Exam with your Primary Care provider. Call 1-877-645-9675
Financial Assistance for Breast and Cervical Screenings
Canyonlands Healthcare offers special programs designed to improve access to care for those who face financial barriers and need assistance. Learn about our financial assistance and sliding fee programs.
The Arizona Well-Woman HealthCheck Program provides clinical breast examinations, mammograms, and Pap tests for participants as well as diagnostic testing for women whose screening outcome is abnormal. Check screening locations.
