Spotting Breast Cancer Early

Native News Network Staff in Native Health. Discussion »

Decrease Your Risk

BETHESDA, MARYLAND - Breast cancer is a concern of American Indian women. Early detection is a key to reducing high rates of the death due to the disease, according to the Centers for Disease Controls.

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer for women, and the second-most common cause of cancer-related death in women. But if it's spotted early, the chances of treating it successfully are better.

At the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr. Lisa Richardson:

"The most effective method for detecting breast cancer is mammography. Breast cancer can be found up to three years before the cancer can be felt."

Dr. Richardson says women ages 50 to 74 should get a mammogram every two years, and women ages 40 to 49 should talk with their doctor.

Richardson says women can do some things to decrease their risk of breast cancer, such as being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and drinking alcohol in moderation if at all.

posted November 19, 2011 7:00 am est