Think about 8 women in your life. Your mom, sisters, or wife. They may be your college or high school BFFs. Eight of your coworkers. Eight women you know casually from the gym, your place of worship, or your local coffee shop. Statistics show 1 in 8 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Chances are that you know one of the 1 in 8 who are fighting or have fought this battle.
In my case, that one…was me. Five of my closest friends are also survivors and rallied around me when I was diagnosed. Two had been monitoring their breast health closely because their family histories genetically predisposed them to breast cancer. The other two, like me, detected their cancer early as the result of an annual mammogram. (This means regularly, at the same time each year—not when you get around to it!)
I had been getting my mammos regularly since I was 40—the recommended age if there is no family history. My initial tumor was so small that I could not detect it by touch, even after it was confirmed through the mammogram and biopsy.
Early detection and knowing the facts are key contributors to survival and less invasive treatment.
When it is caught early, the 5-year relative survival rate for breast cancer is more than 99%, according to the American Cancer Society. Because of advances in treatment and better screening and early detection, there are currently more than 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. My 5 friends and I are lucky to be included in that statistic.
Treatment protocols vary, and while they depend largely on the type of cancer, early detection can decrease the need for invasive treatment, such as major resections or mastectomies. I did have a small surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy because my cancer was an uncommon type. My treatment lasted about 6 months but really did not inhibit my usual activities nor my quality of life. At one point, my oncologist said the chances of my cancer coming back were now less than the average person on the street.
Friends and family, and even acquaintances, offered support during my treatment, often asking what they could do to help. My usual answer was, “Get your mammograms—and tell every female you know to get her mammogram regularly, too!”
I know some women fear the discomfort of a mammogram or the exposure to radiation. While there is some discomfort, it is so minimal and brief, as is the radiation exposure. The benefits of early detection far outweigh any risk.
I remain incredibly grateful for my early detection and the treatment I received as a result. Last year, my oncologist shared the news that I did not need to see her any longer. I had hit the 5-year mark!
I continue to get my annual mammograms and keep the regular check-up visit with my breast surgeon. These provide me with great peace of mind—and a reminder of my immense gratitude.
