Breast Cancer Awareness: Changes to Notice and When to Screen

Breast cancer awareness starts with two practical steps: knowing which breast changes deserve attention and understanding when your next screening is due.

October’s pink ribbons are a helpful reminder. But between work, family, and everything else on your calendar, it can be easy to put off an appointment or wonder whether a change is worth bringing up.

You don’t need to know what a symptom means before asking for help. Here’s what to keep in mind this month and throughout the year.

Breast changes to discuss with a provider

Pay attention to changes that are new or unusual for you, including:

• A lump or firm area in the breast or underarm.
• A breast that has changed in shape or size.
• Dimpling, puckering, swelling, or unusual skin redness.
• A nipple that has newly changed direction or turned inward.
• Nipple fluid that isn’t breast milk.
• Breast discomfort that persists.

Most breast changes have causes other than cancer. Still, a provider should evaluate a new concern rather than leaving you to guess what it means. The National Cancer Institute’s symptom guide explains these changes in more detail.

Don’t wait for your next screening to ask about a symptom

A recent normal mammogram doesn’t mean you should ignore a new lump or another breast change.

Contact a healthcare provider promptly and describe what you noticed. They may recommend an examination, diagnostic imaging, or other testing, even if your next routine screening isn’t due yet. National Cancer Institute

When you call, try this simple starting point:

“I noticed a new change in my breast. It started around this date, and I’d like to know what appointment I need.”

You don’t need perfect medical language. A brief description is enough to begin the conversation.

When should breast cancer screening begin?

For women at average risk, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends a screening mammogram every two years from ages 40 through 74. This guidance also includes other people assigned female at birth, including transgender men and nonbinary people.

For people 75 or older, evidence is insufficient to recommend one routine schedule for everyone. Discuss whether to continue screening with your clinician, considering your health and preferences. USPSTF screening recommendations

Why have I heard that mammograms should be yearly?

Professional organizations don’t all recommend the same schedule.

For example, the American Cancer Society recommends annual mammograms for average-risk women ages 45–54, with the option to begin yearly screening at 40–44. From age 55, women may continue annually or switch to every other year.

That difference is a reason to discuss your screening plan—not to delay an appointment you’re already due for. Ask your provider which guideline they recommend for you and why. American Cancer Society screening guidelines

Your history may change your screening plan

An average-risk schedule doesn’t fit everyone. Tell your provider about a strong family history of breast cancer, known inherited gene changes such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, or chest radiation treatment at a young age.

Some people at high risk need screening earlier and may need both mammograms and breast MRI. Your provider can assess your history and explain whether a different plan makes sense. American Cancer Society

If a mammogram report mentions dense breasts, ask what that means for you. Density can affect both cancer risk and how well a mammogram detects changes. Decisions about additional imaging should be individualized. USPSTF

Feeling fine? Keep your screening appointment

Early breast cancer may cause no noticeable symptoms. Screening looks for signs before you feel a lump or notice another change. Being familiar with your breasts is useful, but it doesn’t replace recommended mammograms. National Cancer Institute

Mammograms also have limitations: they can miss cancers or lead to additional testing for findings that turn out not to be cancer. Your clinician can discuss the benefits and possible downsides with you. American Cancer Society

Where does telemedicine fit?

A virtual visit can provide a place to discuss concerns and possible next steps. It cannot perform a mammogram or replace a hands-on examination when one is needed.

If you’ve noticed a new breast change, tell the clinic when scheduling so they can help determine the appropriate type of appointment. Don’t let arranging a virtual visit delay recommended in-person evaluation.

Oregon Telemed offers virtual visits for non-emergency concerns. To ask about appointment options, visit Oregon Telemed or call/text 541-919-8444.

Turn breast cancer awareness into one useful action

Choose the step that fits your situation:

• You’re due for screening: Contact your provider or breast imaging center to schedule.
• You don’t know when you’re due: Ask your provider to review your screening plan.
• You’ve noticed a new change: Tell a provider promptly instead of waiting for a routine mammogram.
• You have a family history you haven’t discussed: Bring it up at your next appointment.

You can also save these questions in your phone:

“When is my next mammogram due?”
“Does my history change my screening schedule?”
“Who should I contact if something changes between screenings?”

This October, let the reminder become an appointment, a question, or a conversation you’ve been meaning to have.

This article provides general education and does not replace individualized medical advice.