Actions for Finding a Lump

Actions for Finding a Lump

What to Do When You Find a Lump in Your Breast

Finding a lump in your breast can be alarming. However, understanding the next steps to take can arm you with important knowledge. In a HealthyGrown webinar titled “What to Do When You Find a Lump,” Stephanie Bernik, MD, provided valuable insights and guidance. Dr. Bernik, the chief of breast service at Mount Sinai West in New York and an associate professor of surgery at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, discussed breast changes that need to be checked, health conditions other than breast cancer that might be the cause, the usefulness of breast self-exams, and more.

According to Dr. Bernik, if you find a mass, there’s no need to panic. Many things can be benign (non-cancerous), especially for menstruating individuals. However, it’s crucial not to ignore any findings. Early detection plays a significant role in breast cancer treatment.

Reducing Estrogen Exposure Can Lower Breast Cancer Risk

High levels of estrogen are linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and other health conditions. The webinar conducted a poll among viewers to determine the various ways they reduce their exposure to estrogen. The results showed that 40% of respondents reduce their estrogen exposure through regular exercise, followed by 27% who avoid estrogen-increasing hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Other ways to limit estrogen exposure include reducing fat in the diet (20%) and drinking little or no alcohol (11%).

Understanding Breast Cancer Risks

Dr. Bernik also discussed the known risks for breast cancer. According to the webinar poll, being female was considered a breast cancer risk factor for 41% of viewers, while over 30% attributed their risk to having a family history of breast cancer. Other identified risks included starting periods early (13%), being postmenopausal and taking hormone therapy (7%), and starting menopause late (4%).

Breast Self-Exams: A Helpful Technique with Caution

Breast self-exams, once popularized as a screening tool, are now cautioned against by doctors. Dr. Bernik explains that people tend to feel too much during these exams, leading to false positive results. If you feel something but doctors don’t see anything alarming, you may end up needing surgery for a tissue diagnosis. While it’s essential to be aware of any changes in your breasts, it’s also essential to understand that you’ll feel the fat areas in your breasts during a self-exam, which may not be dangerous lumps. Over-reliance on self-exams can create unnecessary anxiety.

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Dr. Bernik suggests a more practical approach. She advises sweeping your breasts in the shower, ensuring you don’t feel anything obvious. If you do feel something, it shouldn’t be ignored, and a medical consultation should be sought.

When to See Your Doctor About a Lump

The course of action you should take if you discover a breast mass depends on various factors, such as your menopausal status. If you’ve been through menopause and find a breast mass, it is advisable to call your doctor and schedule an examination. Most breast cancers occur in postmenopausal women, but it’s essential to remember that young individuals can still develop cancer.

If you haven’t been through menopause, it’s recommended to wait until after your next period to see if the lump is still there. If it persists, it’s crucial to consult your doctor.

Viewer Questions Addressed by Dr. Bernik

During the webinar, viewers had the opportunity to ask questions to address their specific concerns regarding breast health. Some of the questions and answers provided by Dr. Bernik are:

How do breast implants affect breast cancer risk?

Breast implants can make some breast tissue unclear during mammograms. Individuals with implants should consider additional screening methods, such as more frequent mammograms and adding an MRI every three years along with the screening mammogram. In the past, some textured implants were associated with lymphoma, but those types of implants are no longer used unless medically necessary.

What’s the link between stress and breast cancer?

Stress can increase the risk of breast cancer as it causes inflammatory reactions in the body. High stress levels affect cells on a microscopic level, which raises the risk of cancer. Leading a healthy lifestyle, including eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, minimizing alcohol consumption, and reducing stress, can help lower the risk.

How does breast reduction surgery affect breast cancer risk?

Breast reduction surgery doesn’t eliminate the risk of breast cancer entirely. However, individuals with a genetic predisposition to breast cancer may consider prophylactic mastectomy as a risk reduction measure. This surgical procedure can remove a significant portion of breast tissue, reducing the risk by approximately 90%.

How do you know if you’re a BRCA carrier?

Genetic testing for BRCA mutations has become more accessible due to reduced costs. Screening for BRCA is recommended for individuals with triple-negative cancer, a family history of male breast cancer, a history of breast and ovarian cancer, or several relatives with breast cancer. It’s important to thoroughly assess family history on both maternal and paternal sides to gauge individual risk accurately.

Why are women more likely to develop breast cancer as they age?

The likelihood of developing breast cancer increases with age due to the natural aging process. Cells in the body age over time, and as they age, the repair mechanisms may not function as efficiently. This can result in breaks in DNA, which, if left unaddressed, can lead to cancer development.

Should you get an ultrasound annually with a mammogram if you have dense breasts?

Ultrasound and mammogram recommendations for individuals with dense breasts may vary depending on the state or region. Some states include statements about dense breast tissue on mammograms, requiring additional discussion with healthcare providers regarding the need for further screening. If a mammogram identifies “heterogeneously dense” breast tissue, it is advisable to request an ultrasound as well.

Should you have mammograms as long as you live?

Breast surgeons generally recommend screening for breast cancer as long as an individual is expected to live for more than five years. Although guidelines suggest stopping mammograms at the age of 75, it’s essential to consider an individual’s overall health and life expectancy. Regular screening should be considered even at an advanced age if an individual remains healthy.

In conclusion, finding a lump in your breast can be a cause for concern, but knowing the necessary steps and guidelines can alleviate anxiety and ensure early detection if necessary. By understanding breast changes, risks, and appropriate procedures, individuals can make informed decisions and seek appropriate medical advice. Regular screenings, leading a healthy lifestyle, and staying informed are essential aspects of breast health.