October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the United States — a time dedicated to funding research, advancing treatments, and spreading knowledge about the disease.
Dr. Andre Arsenault, an oncologist at Mosaic Life Care, said early detection remains the most effective tool in fighting breast cancer.
“The earlier you catch it, the more treatable it is,” Arsenault said. “Don’t delay getting a mammogram.”
He noted that the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends women at average risk — those without a strong family history of breast cancer — begin screening at age 40 and continue every two years.
Arsenault added that being aware of one’s genetics and family history is also important, as certain inherited genes can increase the risk of breast cancer and other diseases such as prostate cancer.
For more information or to schedule a checkup, contact your local health care provider.