Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women. In fact, one in eight women are diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives. It’s important for you to understand your risks and what you can do to prevent 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 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.
Although breast cancer is mostly found in women, 1 out of 100 men can get diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
Know the Symptoms
Symptoms of breast cancer can vary. 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. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends women ages 40–74 at average risk of breast cancer to get screened every two years. Women at higher risk for breast cancer may need screenings earlier and more often. These decisions are important to talk about with your doctor.
Routine annual mammograms for women ages 35 and older are 100% covered on TRS-ActiveCare and TRS-Care Standard.
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 is still 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
Member Rewards
Get rewarded for getting cancer screenings like a mammogram or visit with your PCP, OBGYN or specialist with Member Rewards. You can earn up to $599 per year.
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 added cost with Well onTarget.® They can help you focus on your fitness, nutrition, weight loss, quitting smoking and more.
TRS-Care Medicare Advantage Resources
Find a Provider
For more information about plan coverage or to find a primary care physician call UnitedHealthcare toll-free 1-866-347-9507, TTY 711, 7 a.m.-6 p.m. CT, Monday-Friday or register on your member website.