August 18 marks World Breast Cancer Research Day - a time to reflect on the advances made in breast health and to empower women to take charge of their own well-being. At Modern Women’s Health, founded by board-certified OB/GYN Lisa M. Jukes, M.D., we take a comprehensive, 360-degree approach to your care. Whether you’re in your teens, childbearing years, or beyond menopause, our goal is to empower you with knowledge and provide the right care at every stage of life.
Why Breast Cancer Awareness and Research Matter
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. Thanks to ongoing research and greater awareness, more women are living healthy, fulfilling lives after a breast cancer diagnosis. But the best outcomes happen when breast cancer is found early. That’s why we’re committed to offering resources, support, and hereditary cancer risk screening that helps you and your provider understand your unique risk and create a personalized plan for early detection.
The Power of Self-Exams
Knowing your body is one of the most important steps in protecting your breast health. A regular self-breast exam can help you become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, so you can quickly notice any changes. Here are a few tips for effective self-exams:
- Perform a self-exam once a month, ideally a few days after your period ends, when breasts are less likely to be swollen or tender.
- Use the pads of your fingers to move in a circular motion, covering all areas of your breast and underarm.
- Look for any lumps, thickening, changes in size or shape, or skin changes like dimpling or redness.
- Don’t panic if you notice something different - most changes are not cancerous, but it’s important to have any concerns checked by your provider.
If you notice a new breast lump, ongoing pain, skin changes, tenderness, or nipple discharge, it’s important to get checked promptly. While many changes can be normal, especially around your cycle,a lump or change that does not resolve could be a cyst, benign tumor, or in rare cases, a cancerous tumor. If this happens, make an appointment for a clinical breast exam. Depending on your age, symptoms, and cycle, we may schedule a follow-up or order imaging such as a mammogram or ultrasound. (A Well Woman Exam is a yearly preventative visit, so please schedule a separate visit for new concerns.)
Mammograms: The Gold Standard for Early Detection
While self-exams are a great first line of defense, mammograms remain the most effective tool for detecting breast cancer early - often before any symptoms develop. We recommend:
- Women aged 40–44 have the option to start annual mammograms, women 45–54 are encouraged to have yearly mammograms, and women 55 and older should continue regular screenings (annually or every two years) based on a shared decision with their provider.
- Talk to your provider about the best screening schedule for you.
- Don’t delay your mammogram - early detection saves lives.
Personalized Care: Why We Offer My Risk Testing
Every woman’s risk for breast cancer is unique. Modern Women’s Health offers hereditary cancer risk screening, a simple in-office test that analyzes your personal and family history, along with key genetic markers, to help you understand your risk of developing breast cancer and other cancers. Your results empower you and your provider to personalize your screening and prevention plan, so you can take proactive steps for your health with confidence.
- Personalized Prevention: Your results help you and your provider make informed choices about screening and prevention - whether that means earlier or more frequent mammograms, additional imaging, or lifestyle changes.
- Empowerment Through Knowledge: Understanding your risk allows you to take proactive steps for your health and gives peace of mind.
- Family Impact: Your results can also inform your loved ones about their potential risk, helping to protect the health of those you care about.
Take Charge of Your Breast Health
Your breast health matters every day, not just on World Breast Cancer Research Day. Whether you have questions, are due for your annual mammogram, or want to learn more about My Risk Testing, our compassionate team is here to guide you. Schedule a consultation with Modern Women’s Health today, and let us support you with personalized care at every step.
If you notice a change in your breast or have a new concern, don’t wait, call our office to schedule a clinical breast exam. Early attention makes all the difference.
Together, we can make a difference, one woman, one family, and one community at a time.
