I became a surgeon because I am a problem-solver. Breast cancer is a problem that threatens all women, and I decided to make it my career focus when I had a close friend diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age. Because of her, I am particularly passionate about breast cancer in young women. In some ways, my career is a tribute to my friend and all the other women who have struggled with this disease. I am continually impressed by the poise and strength of my patients – they are the reason that I love my profession, as difficult and heartbreaking as it may be at times.With Breast Cancer Awareness Month just around the corner, here are some tips on how women can optimize their breast health:
· Limit alcohol consumption to less than five drinks a week.
· Exercise regularly and wear supportive, well-fitted undergarments.
· Maintain a healthy weight.
· Monitor and reduce caffeine intake, especially to help with breast pain and cyst symptoms.
· Breast-feed, if possible.
· Women should be familiar with their breasts and what’s “normal” for them on a self-breast exam, including a visual inspection.
· Women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast exam by a health care provider at least once every three years. After 40, women should have a clinical breast exam annually.
· Women over 40 should consider having a screening mammogram every year.
· Contact your doctor if you notice unusual swelling of all or part of the breast; skin irritation or dimpling; a nipple turning inward; redness, scaliness or thickening of the nipple or breast skin; a persistent lump; or nipple discharge other than breast milk.
· Discuss the risks and benefits of post-menopausal hormonal therapy with your doctor.
· In women at a higher risk of breast cancer, their personal and family history should be reviewed with their physician or a specialist.
· Women with a higher risk of breast cancer should talk with their doctor about the best screening regimen for their own particular situation.
· Preventive surgeries to reduce breast or ovarian cancer risk are an unusual but effective approach for a very small group of women. Have a thorough discussion of the pros and cons of these operations with one or several experts before proceeding with any preventive surgery.
At Moffitt, our mission is to contribute to the prevention and cure of cancer. We are always looking to tailor the treatments we offer to maximize quality of life for every patient, from breast cancer to brain cancer. At the Center for Women’s Oncology at Moffitt, our board-certified physicians deliver world-class treatment for breast, ovarian and cervical cancers in an elegant surrounding designed just for women.
