You already know that taking care of yourself is important, but did you know that early detection could save your life? As the most common cancer among women worldwide—and the second-most common cancer overall—nearly 260,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Use the Sarah Cannon Cancer Network at HealthONE as your resource to get all your breast cancer questions answered.

What role does genetics play in breast cancer?
Your genetics and family history play an important role in your risk of getting breast cancer and can influence potential treatment options. That’s why you should always be aware of who has had cancer on both sides of your family and what age they were when they got diagnosed. Speak with one of the experienced genetic counselors at the Sarah Cannon Cancer Network at HealthONE to understand all your options related to genetic testing, screening, and treatment.

How do I lower my risk of breast cancer? 
If you have a family history of breast cancer or are worried about getting breast cancer, there are ways to reduce your risk. Along with living a healthy lifestyle, experts from HealthONE and Susan G. Komen Colorado can help you decide if medication or preventive surgery might be right for you.

What are the signs and symptoms of breast cancer?
Breast cancer symptoms can present in many ways, including lumps, areas of thickening in the breasts, or skin or nipple changes. Contact your physician right away if you experience any of these common symptoms.

Should I get a mammogram?
Because a physician might not find breast cancer on a physical exam, getting a mammogram could save your life. For women ages 40-74, Sarah Cannon recommends an annual mammogram screening. Even if you don’t have a family history of breast cancer, women should begin getting annual mammograms at age 40. Consult with your physician if you are considered high risk.

What are my treatment options?
From clinical trials to immunotherapies, the treatment options for patients with breast cancer have dramatically increased. Consult with one of the nationally regarded medical oncologists at HealthONE when considering which of the latest breast cancer treatment options are right for you.

Will I need surgery?
Patients with a breast cancer diagnosis that require surgery have a lot of exciting new treatment options, including a nipple-sparing mastectomy, breast conservation with lumpectomy and radiation, and reconstructive surgery. Consult with your doctor to see which surgical option is best for your type of breast cancer.

What should I ask my doctor after a breast cancer diagnosis?
Hearing you have breast cancer is difficult, but it doesn’t have to be a death sentence. There are some important questions to ask your doctor post diagnosis to help you feel comfortable with the care team that you have selected and next steps. Visit the Breast Cancer Q&A for a complete list of questions.