October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. And for good reason. Think for a minute about seven women who are part of your life, whether friends or family. One of you is almost certain to develop invasive breast cancer because 266,120 new cases are expected in 2018. Another 63,960 cases of non-invasive breast cancer are predicted for this year. And men aren’t exempt. According to breastcancer.org, about 2,550 men will develop breast cancer this year.

Except for lung cancer, a woman’s highest chance of terminal cancer is breast cancer. Although that’s a frightening fact, it’s not the whole story. Breast cancer is also one of the easiest cancers to diagnose. Yearly mammograms and doctor exams for women over 40 and doing monthly self-exams will detect most lumps.

Although statistics remain high, the number of women who are diagnosed with breast cancer has steadily declined since 2000. One of the reasons may be that a link seemed to be found between Hormone Replacement Therapy and breast cancer. Since that study, less women are taking HRT.

The most significant risk factors for developing breast cancer are gender and age. However, obesity may also increase your risk. Having a first degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) doubles your risk.

So, what can you do to increase your chances of finding breast cancer early? What symptoms should you look for? This short list may help:

• Monthly self-exams: If you notice a lump or any changes, don’t wait. Let your doctor know immediately. That includes a lump you find under your arm.
• Yearly mammograms: Regardless of what you’ve heard, mammograms DO save lives. If you are 40, you should be getting a yearly mammogram. If you have a first-degree relative, who has had breast cancer, you should start having mammograms earlier. Check with your family doctor.
• Swelling, redness, nipple discharge, change in appearance of breast or nipple. Any of these require an immediate call to your doctor.
• Lose that weight. Obesity plays a role in breast cancer, increasing your risk. Eating healthier and losing weight can reduce your risk.

Early detection can mean the difference between being a survivor or losing your battle with breast cancer. Right now, there are more than three million women in the United States, who have a history of breast cancer. You, like they, can increase the likelihood you’ll be a survivor.

Over the next couple of weeks, I’ll be sharing the stories of some brave women who have battled breast cancer. My guess is you’ll be inspired and encouraged by their stories. In the meantime, why don’t you schedule that mammogram you’ve been postponing? It could be a life saver.

Note: All statistics are from the breastcancer.org website.