October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The 31-day annual awareness campaign, famously connected to the pink ribbons, helps educate people about this common concern. It also promotes early detection, screening, and ongoing research.

Part of the reason for so much attention is that, as with the case in preventing many forms of cancer, breast health deserves attention long before a problem is obvious. Much like prostate health in men, understanding what to look for and how early and how often to check is important.

How Common Is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women in the United States. 

Statistically, the odds of developing breast cancer at some point in a person’s life are roughly one in eight, or 13%. To put that in perspective, in the U.S. in 2026, it’s estimated that there will be around 321,910 new cases of invasive breast cancer. Over 42,000 women will die from the condition in those same 12 months, as well.

Breast cancer is most common in middle-aged and older women, with the median age of diagnosis at 63 years old. However, it can also affect younger women, with fully one-tenth of diagnoses coming in women under 45 years old. 

Having a family history of someone who had or has breast cancer, especially a close relative, can increase individual risk as well, and is worth discussing with your primary care physician. Breast cancer can also occur in men, although that is much less common. 

Breast Cancer Signs Women Should Look For

There are some symptoms that can point toward early signs of breast cancer. According to the CDC, these include:

• Pain in the breast.

• A new lump in the breast or underarm/armpit.

• Breast skin that is irritated or dimpling.

• Thickening or swelling in areas of the breast.

• Redness or flaky skin around the breast or nipple.

• When the nipple area experiences pain or pulls in.

• The presence of unusual discharge or blood around the nipple.

These are simply potential signs. If you notice them, don’t panic. Stay calm and check with your doctor.

When to Check for Breast Cancer

It’s important to emphasize that cancer can often be asymptomatic for a long time, which is why regular breast cancer screenings are recommended, especially as you get older.

It’s wise to get a mammogram screening every two years from age 40 through 74. Even at younger ages, maintaining regular wellness visits is an important part of prevention so that breast cancer treatment can start as early as possible if needed.

Staying Ahead of Breast Cancer Concerns

As with many similar conditions, staying proactive is an important way to prevent and manage breast cancer before it becomes a major health concern. 

Maintain regular conversations with your PCP, and make sure to discuss any family or previous health concerns that may influence your situation. And remember, taking proactive steps today may feel like an inconvenience, but it can save you years of life and make treatment much easier if you catch a breast cancer diagnosis as early as possible.