October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

In 2022, of all invasive cancer types, breast cancer was the most common among women, with 10,189 new cases diagnosed among females in Ohio, according to the latest statistics available.

"Breast cancer affects so many people," said Dr. Mary DiOrio, medical director at the Ohio Department of Health (ODH). "Prevention and early detection are key to protecting our health, and it starts with knowing the facts."

Breast cancer is the most diagnosed form of invasive cancer for women in Ohio. Women are almost 100 times more likely than men to receive a breast cancer diagnosis. Most breast cancers are found in women aged 55 and older.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) in the United States, a good time to learn about breast health, early detection, and the many resources available to prevent or combat the disease. Since 1989, increased awareness through campaigns like BCAM has helped reduce breast cancer deaths in the United States by 44%.

Risk Factors

There are several potentially preventable risk factors for breast cancer, including obesity, not breastfeeding, age at the birth of your first child, and more. However, you can take steps to help prevent breast cancer now.

• Stay physically active.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Breastfeeding (when possible).

More information on preventable and non-preventable risk factors can be found in this downloadable ODH document, Cancer Risk Factors.

How Can I Detect Breast Cancer Early?

The five-year relative survival probability for female breast cancer in Ohio is nearly 100% for cases diagnosed at the earliest stage, but only 32% when diagnosed at the latest stage. Therefore, early detection is the key to survival for breast cancer. Women ages 40 to 74 years and at average risk for breast cancer are recommended to have a mammogram every two years, according to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best screening recommendation for you.

The Ohio Department of Health's Breast and Cervical Cancer Project (BCCP) offers free mammogram screenings to qualified individuals. Additionally, BCCP helps guide women through the healthcare system, find providers and community resources, and answer questions about scheduling, insurance, and so much more. For more information about BCCP or to see if you qualify for free screenings, call 1-844-430-BCCP (2227).

"Although breast cancer isn't always preventable, being proactive can make a world of difference," said Dr. DiOrio.

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