Taking charge of breast health

If you don’t know someone who has been affected by breast cancer, consider yourself lucky—among American women, it’s the most common cancer (after non-melanoma skin cancer) and the second leading cause of cancer death.

More than 2 million grandmothers, mothers, aunts, sisters, and daughters have undergone breast cancer treatment in the U.S.

Play it safe

A healthy lifestyle may reduce the likelihood of breast cancer. Maintain an ideal body weight and exercise regularly to avoid health problems—including all types of cancer. It’s also important to drink only in moderation and to not smoke. However, many women who develop it do not have any risk factors.

“UI Breast Health offers a comprehensive approach for women with benign breast diseases, concerns about breast cancer, or diagnosed breast cancer. Because early detection is key, we are advocates of screening mammography, self-examination, and routine breast examinations by a health care provider,” says Sonia Sugg, MD, UI Breast Health physician.

Warning signs

• Abnormal thickening or a change in the color or shape of the breast
• Dimpling or puckering of the skin or nipple
• Discharge of the nipple
• Sore or scaly area on nipple
• A lump in the breast or armpit

For women age 40 and older, the American Cancer Society recommends a yearly mammogram. The UI Breast Imaging Centers offers cutting edge digital mammography, which is nearly 28 percent more effective in detecting breast tumors in women under 50.

Call 319-356-4422 for an appointment.

Know your options

If you’re diagnosed with breast cancer, you have options. Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center specialists use surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy to treat breast cancer.  These professionals offer minimally invasive surgery for breast preservation and state-of-the-art technology that minimize radiation exposure to healthy tissue.

“For those interested in learning more about breast health, we provide a series of pamphlets and brochures that explain prevention, effective self-exam techniques, diagnosis, and treatment options for women concerned about breast cancer,” says Sugg.

Call Cancer Information Service, 800-237-1225 or 319-356-3000, for breast cancer information.