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October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, honor the fighters, and celebrate those we’ve lost.

It’s also a reminder to get screened today, because one in eight women in the United States are diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, people all over the country delayed their screening, disrupting treatment and research progress. So, this month is a reminder that more progress is needed, and that starts with early detection. According to the American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is detected early and in a localized stage, the 5 year relative survival rate is 99%.

To detect any possible changes early, it’s important to do monthly self exams and schedule regular clinical breast exams and mammograms. It’s also vital to understand risk factors which include: 

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet and avoiding smoking can help lower the likelihood of being diagnosed with breast cancer
• Limit alcohol consumption: Studies show that a woman’s risk for breast cancer increases the more alcohol she drinks
• Manage weight: Obesity, especially post menopause, can increase cancer risk
• Taking hormones: Some forms of hormone replacement therapy taken during menopause can raise risk for breast cancer when taken for more than five years

The USFHP Primary Healthcare Plan provides routine doctor's visits, hospitalization, prescription coverage, preventative healthcare coverage, and specialty care. 

Visit usfhp.net or call 1-800- 241-4848. We can assist you Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (EST).