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Breast Cancer Awareness

The Pulse
October 2023

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women. In fact, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives.

With about 280,000 new cases in the U.S. each year, it's never been more important for you to understand your risks and what you can do to prevent the onset of breast cancer.  ​

Are You at Risk?

While some women may be more at risk than others, everyone has the potential to get breast cancer.

Your risk of breast cancer increases if you:

  • are age 50 or older
  • have a mother, sister or daughter who has had breast cancer
  • started your period before age 12
  • started menopause after age 55
  • had your first child after age 30
  • have no children
  • are overweight or obese after menopause
  • had a biopsy showing abnormal changes
  • had breast cancer before 

Women who have a family history of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, dense breasts or certain genetic mutations are also at greater risk of breast cancer. Other factors, such as smoking and drinking alcohol, can also increase your risk. 

Check out the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Risk Factors for Breast Cancer for a complete list and helpful links. CDC also has more information about the risks and symptoms of breast cancer in men, since 1% of breast cancers are diagnosed in men.​

group of diverse women in pink shirts

Know the Symptoms

Symptoms of breast cancer can vary among people. You may not show any signs. See your doctor right away if you notice these warning signs:

  • lump or node in your breast or armpit
  • swelling or redness on part of your breast
  • irritation or dimpling of your breast skin
  • peeling or flaky skin in your nipple area or your breast
  • any nipple discharge other than breast milk
  • change in the size or the shape of your breast
  • pain in any part of your breast
  • thickening on or near your breast
  • change in the color or texture of the skin on or around your breast ​

Get Screened

Finding breast cancer early is important. More than 43,000 women in the U.S. die each year from breast cancer. Don't take any chances. Talk to your health care provider about breast cancer, your risk factors, and your family medical history. 

Recommendations for women at average breast cancer risk:

  • If you're between the ages of 50 and 74, get a mammogram at least every two years.
  • If you're 40 to 49, talk with your health care provider about the risks and benefits of mammography and when you should get screened.

All TRS health plans cover 100% of your annual wellness exam with your OB-GYN  or Primary Care Provider (PCP). Routine annual mammograms for women 35 and over are also covered.

Tell your doctor about your risk factors to find out if you should get mammograms more often.

What can you do?​

You can't change your family history, but there are many ways to help prevent breast cancer. Start with what you can control.

  • Get a regular checkup. Early detection can save your life. Your routine mammogram or well-woman exam can help spot a potential problem sooner.
  • Develop healthy habits. Limit alcohol and eat low-fat foods and lots of fruits and vegetables.
  • Maintain a healthy weight. Aim for at least 150 minutes of aerobic activity, like walking or cycling, weekly.
  • Don't smoke or use tobacco. When it comes to cancer, tobacco remains one of the largest risk factors.
  • Get familiar with your breasts. Knowing how your breasts look and feel can help you notice symptoms that may be of concern. Learn how to give yourself a breast self-exam. Breast self-exams shouldn't be used as a replacement for a visit with your PCP or OBGYN.  ​

TRS-ActiveCare and TRS-Care Standard Resources​

Provider Finder®

If you need help finding a PCP or OB-GYN, our Provider Finder® lets you search for providers using location, patient reviews, certifications and more. A Personal Health Guide can also help you find a provider and schedule an appointment. They're available 24/7 at 1-866-355-5999, or you can chat through the BCBSTX App. 

Well onTarget®

If you need help making healthy lifestyle changes, you can work with a wellness coach at no additional cost with Well onTarget.® They can help you focus on your fitness, nutrition, weight loss, quitting smoking and more.

TRS-Care Medicare Resources​

Provider Finder®

If you need help finding a PCP or OB-GYN, use UnitedHealthcare's Provider Finder. You can also call the UHC customer support line at 1-866-347-9507 Monday – Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST.

SilverSneakers​​

SiiverSneakers is a fitness and lifestyle program included with your TRS-Care Medicare Advantage plan at no added cost.​

What does SilverSneakers include?

  • Memberships to thousands of fitness locations — visit as many times as you wish
  • Group exercise classes for all abilities
  • Fun activities outside the gym
  • SilverSneakers On-DemandTM online workout videos that feature tips on fitness and nutrition
  • SilverSneakers LIVE virtual classes and workshops throughout the week
  • SilverSneakers GOTM mobile app

Get started today by visiting SilverSneakers.com or calling 1-888-423-4632, TTY 711.

Rally CoachTM

Get help living a healthier, happier life with Rally Coach. These virtual programs are available at no added cost.Get started today. Visit rallyhealth.com/retiree.

Wellness Coaching

Wellness Coaching offers live, online coaching support that provides access to a variety of digital health and wellness courses.

For Wellness Coaching, call 1-800-478-1057, TTY 711

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