Facts About Breast Cancer - Health Plan of San Joaquin

Get the Facts About Breast Cancer

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends biennial mammography for women ages 50-74. If you have a family history of breast cancer talk to your doctor about when to start testing. If you are less than 50, discuss with your doctor for when and how often to get a mammogram. Finding breast cancer early by mammography leads to more health care choices.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is sometimes found after symptoms appear, but many women with breast cancer have no symptoms.

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Common myths we hear in our community:

Only females get breastcancer.

Men and women can get breast cancer.

I have small breasts and I don’t need a mammogram.

Cancer cells can spread to any breast size. A woman has a 1 in 8 chance of developing breast cancer in her lifetime.

Only some ethnic groups can get breast cancer.

Any woman can get breast cancer no matter the ethnic group.

Since I have no family history of breast cancer I won’t get it.

All women can get breast cancer whether they have a family history or not.

My age determines my chances of getting breast cancer.

Age does not determine when you get breast cancer, though there is a higher risk with certain age groups.

I don’t need a mammogram unless I feel a lump.

Don’t wait until you have a lump to get a mammogram done. 75% of breast cancer sufferers do not have any signs such as lumps.

Mammograms cause cancer.

This test uses very little doses of radiation. It is used to detect breast cancer early.

Take time to take care of yourself

Knowing the truth about a mammogram can save your life or the life of someone you love. A mammogram may be uncomfortable, but the slight pressure you may feel for a few moments is better than a lifetime of pain that breast cancer may cause.

Advice Nurse Line

A free 24/7 phone service to speak with a nurse or doctor for health advice. You can also call to listen to the audio health library with over 330 health topics! Dial the codes below to learn about the topics: Mammogram: 1107, Women’s Cancer: 1120

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