Barbara Grassley, wife of Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa, is a longtime breast cancer survivor and screening advocate. She first discovered a lump in her breast in 1987 and soon learned it was cancer.

She received a radical mastectomy on one side and a lumpectomy on the other and has been cancer-free since. Today, Grassley is now a fierce advocate for breast cancer prevention and early detection, working with the Prevent Cancer Foundation to encourage women to get screened and to spread the word about early detection.

“It never hurts to encourage your neighbor,” Grassley said. “Say to them you’re having your checkup and ask, ‘When is yours?’ Just a little nudge here and there… Just keep on getting checked!”

WHY SCREENINGS ARE IMPORTANT

Breast cancer is highly treatable when caught early. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most cases are diagnosed after age 50. Mammograms are the most effective tool for early detection.

Yet the Prevent Cancer Foundation’s 2024 Early Detection Survey found that 1 in 3 women age 40 or older are not up to date with screenings.

WHEN TO START SCREENING

Women should begin getting annual mammograms at age 40, either with traditional 2D imaging or breast tomosynthesis (3D). A 3D mammogram may be more accurate, especially for women with dense breast tissue. Talk with your provider about which option is right for you.

You may need earlier or additional tests if you:

• Have several close relatives with breast cancer
• Had a mother diagnosed before age 50
• Began menstruating before age 12 or reached menopause after 55
• Have certain genetic mutations or a family history of ovarian or colorectal cancer
• Are overweight or obese, have never had children, or had your first child after age 30

For higher-risk patients, additional screening such as breast MRI, genetic counseling and testing may be recommended.

NEWER REPORTING RULES

As of September 10, 2024, the Food and Drug Administration requires all mammography facilities to report breast density in patient medical reports. Patients will be told whether their breasts are “dense” or “not dense.”

Dense breast tissue not only increases breast cancer risk but can also make it harder for radiologists to detect cancer. Depending on your breast density and risk factors, your provider may recommend supplemental screening such as ultrasound or MRI. Keep in mind, these follow-up tests may not always be covered by insurance.

SYMPTOMS TO WATCH FOR

Routine screenings are critical, but also talk to your doctor right away if you notice:

• A lump, knot or thickening in the breast or underarm
• A change in size or shape of the breast
• Nipple pain, tenderness or discharge (including bleeding)
• Rash, itchiness or scaling on the nipple
• A nipple turning inward
• Changes in skin color or texture, such as dimpling or redness
• A breast that feels warm or swollen

LOWERING YOUR RISK

While some risk factors can’t be changed, lifestyle choices play a role. You can:

• Quit tobacco (call 1-800-QUIT-NOW for help)
• Exercise at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. 
• Consider breastfeeding, which may lower risk
• Limit alcohol to one drink a day (women) or two (men)
• Maintain a healthy weight, especially after menopause
• Stay current on screenings—and encourage others to do the same

To learn more about breast cancer prevention and screening information, visit PreventCancer.org/breast.

Jody Hoyos is CEO of Prevent Cancer Foundation. This article is reprinted courtesy of the National Council on Aging (NCOA.org).

Breast Cancer Awareness Month Hands-on cooking classes

October 16, 5:30-7:30 p.m. 
Nourish & Thrive: Learn how a high-fiber, low-fat diet supports cancer prevention with nutrition tips, videos and a cooking demo.

October 30, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Foods and Breast Cancer Survival: Explore how a plant-based diet may reduce risk and support wellness after treatment, with recipe demos and a meal to enjoy.

Each class is $15. Register at pcpgj.com, by email at [email protected] or by calling 970-245-9370.

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