October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month — a time to reflect, educate and take action. Whether you’re scheduling your first mammogram or supporting someone you love, now is the perfect moment to prioritize breast health.

Understanding breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, aside from skin cancer. While we don't always know what causes it, certain factors can raise your risk:

• Age: Risk increases as we grow older, especially after menopause.
• Family history: Having a close relative, like a mother or sister, with breast cancer can elevate your risk.
• Genetic mutations: BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are strongly linked to breast and ovarian cancers.
• Hormonal factors: Early menstruation, late menopause and long-term hormone replacement therapy can increase risk.

Types of breast cancer include:

• Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): An early form where abnormal cells are found in the milk ducts.
• Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC): The most common type, spreading from the ducts into nearby tissue.
• Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC): Begins in the lobules (milk glands) and can spread beyond the breast.

Know the common signs

Breast cancer doesn’t always come with obvious symptoms — that’s why early and regular screening is critical. Still, it helps to know the five primary signs:

• A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm,
• Changes in breast size or shape,
• Swelling, redness or warmth,
• Nipple discharge, rash or inversion,
• Skin dimpling or puckering.

These symptoms don’t always mean cancer, but it’s always best to talk to your doctor if you notice any changes.

The importance of early detection

The earlier breast cancer is found, the greater the chance for successful treatment. In fact, the five-year survival rate for localized breast cancer is 99%, according to the American Cancer Society.

Recommended screening methods:

• Mammograms: X-rays that can detect cancer before symptoms appear.
• Clinical breast exams: Performed by Tanner healthcare professionals.
• Self-exams: Regular self-checks make it easier to detect unusual changes early, when treatment is often most effective.

The Society for Surgical Oncology recommends that women at average risk begin annual mammograms at age 40 and continue them as long as they’re in good health and have a life expectancy of at least 10 years.

Take charge of your health today — schedule your mammogram with Tanner and take the first step toward peace of mind.

Care that wraps around you

With Tanner Cancer Care, treatment doesn’t start and stop with a diagnosis. It begins with a team — a multidisciplinary group of oncologists, breast surgeons, plastic surgeons, nurse navigators, genetic counselors and emotional support specialists — working together to create a care plan focused on your life, body and goals. Because healing isn’t one-size-fits-all — it’s personal, and we treat it that way.

Restoring wholeness through breast reconstruction

After breast cancer, many patients want more than just survival — they want to feel whole again. Breast reconstruction offers the chance to reclaim your shape, identity and confidence.

There’s no “right” time or way to choose reconstruction. Some opt to have it done immediately following mastectomy, while others wait months or years. And for those who choose not to pursue it, that’s an empowering choice, too.

Reconstruction options include:

• Implant-based reconstruction: Using silicone or saline implants.
• Autologous (flap) reconstruction: Using your tissue from areas like the abdomen or back.
• Combination procedures: Using both implants and tissue for a more customized result.
• Nipple-sparing or skin-sparing mastectomies: Preserving natural tissue for more natural-looking outcomes.

Partnership over procedure

Choosing reconstruction is deeply personal, which is why our team walks with you every step of the way, offering:

• Pre-surgical counseling to explore your options,
• Emotional and psychosocial support, and
• Peer resources and survivor stories to guide and inspire you.

At West Georgia Center for Plastic Surgery, you’re not just offered surgery — you’re offered support, dignity and the power to choose what’s right for you.

Steps to reduce your risk

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent breast cancer, healthy lifestyle choices and awareness can reduce your risk:

• Maintain a healthy weight. Especially after menopause, tuning into your body becomes even more powerful.
• Limit alcohol. Women should stick to one drink or less per day.
• Avoid smoking. It’s linked to many types of cancer, including breast cancer.
• Stay active and eat well. A balanced diet and regular movement make a big difference.

Is genetic testing right for you?

For some, breast cancer risk is tied to genetics. If you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, genetic testing may help identify BRCA1, BRCA2 or other inherited mutations. Talk to your OB-GYN or one of our licensed genetic counselors to determine whether testing is right for you. Knowing your risk empowers you to make confident, informed choices.

We’re with you — every step of the way

With our Tanner Cancer Care Promise, we commit to seeing you within three business days of your referral — because cancer doesn’t wait, and neither do we. From your first screening to recovery and survivorship, you’ll have a team beside you. We’re here to treat the whole person: body, mind and spirit.

This October, wear pink with purpose — each Breast Cancer Awareness T-shirt helps fund mammograms for local women in need. $5 shipping or free pickup at Lamplighter Gift Shop (Tanner Medical Center/Carrollton)