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Breast Cancer: What Every Woman Should Know

  • Writer: Esra Shermadou
    Esra Shermadou
  • Aug 7
  • 3 min read

1 in 8 women will face breast cancer in their lifetime. It’s the second most common cancer in women and one of the leading causes of cancer-related death globally. And yet, many of us don’t really know what to look for—or what steps to take—until we’re already worried.


As a physician, I believe that understanding your body isn’t just empowering—it’s essential. In this post, I want to walk you through what breast cancer is, who’s at risk, how you can protect yourself, and how to approach screening with confidence.


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What Is Breast Cancer?


Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. Sometimes these tumors can be felt as lumps, but often, they’re caught on imaging like a mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI before they can be felt.


There are several types and stages of breast cancer. Staging helps determine treatment options and is based on four main factors:


  • Tumor size

  • Lymph node involvement

  • Whether the cancer has spread (metastasized)

  • Biomarkers like estrogen, progesterone, and HER2/ERBB2 status


Here’s a brief overview of the stages:


  • Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): A noninvasive form confined to the ducts.

  • Early Invasive Cancer (Stages I–II): The tumor has begun to spread into nearby tissue.

  • Locally Advanced (Stage III): More significant spread within the breast and nearby lymph nodes.

  • Metastatic (Stage IV): The cancer has spread to distant parts of the body. While not curable, it is treatable, and advances in care have improved both quality of life and survival.


Understanding Your Risk

Breast cancer risk comes from both factors we can’t control—and those we can.


Non-modifiable Risk Factors:


  • Age (most commonly diagnosed after 40; median age is 62)

  • Family history of breast or ovarian cancer

  • BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutations

  • Dense breast tissue

  • Early menstruation (before age 11) or late menopause (after 55)

  • Personal history of breast conditions


Modifiable Risk Factors

  • Maintaining a healthy weight

  • Regular physical activity

  • Avoiding tobacco use

  • Limiting alcohol (less than one drink per day)


These lifestyle habits may not eliminate risk entirely, but they can significantly reduce it over time. Small, sustainable changes truly matter.


The Power of Screening


Early detection saves lives. Mammograms remain one of the most effective tools we have to find breast cancer early, when treatment is most successful.


So, when should you start?

  • Some guidelines recommend starting at age 40 and screening annually.

  • Others suggest starting at 50 and screening every 1–2 years.


If you have additional risk factors, your plan might look different. It’s important to talk with your provider about what’s best for you.


Breast self-awareness is also key. It’s not about performing a structured exam every month—it’s about knowing what’s normal for your breasts so that you can recognize when something isn’t. If you notice a new lump, skin dimpling, nipple discharge, or changes in size or shape—get it checked.


Self-checks are not a substitute for imaging, but they are a valuable way to stay in tune with your body.


Prevention Through Lifestyle

While we can’t change our genetics, we do have control over our daily habits.


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Here are a few ways to support your long-term health:

  • Nutrition: Focus on fiber-rich foods, lean protein, healthy fats, and whole grains.

  • Movement: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly, plus strength training.

  • Alcohol: Less is more. Keeping intake to one drink or less per day lowers risk.

  • Body weight: Excess body fat can increase breast cancer risk—not just due to estrogen levels, but also because of inflammation and metabolic changes.

  • Stress and sleep: Chronic stress and poor sleep can throw off hormone balance and suppress immune function. Prioritize rest and recovery, too.


Remember—this isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress.


What If You're High-Risk?

If you have a strong family history or carry certain gene mutations, you may be considered high-risk—but that doesn’t mean a breast cancer diagnosis is inevitable. It just means there are additional tools available to help you reduce your risk, such as:


  • Enhanced imaging (like MRI)

  • Genetic counseling

  • Risk-reducing medications

  • Tailored lifestyle support


This is a chance to be proactive, not fearful. The more informed you are, the more options you have.


Final Thoughts


Breast cancer can feel like a heavy topic—but knowledge is power, and prevention is possible.


Here’s what to remember:

  • Know your risk factors

  • Don’t skip your screenings

  • Make lifestyle choices that support your health

  • Speak up if something feels off


If you’re unsure where to start, I encourage you to schedule a conversation with your doctor. And if you’re looking for more personalized, ongoing care, my practice is rooted in prevention, wellness, and support—on your terms.


If you found this helpful, consider sharing it with a friend or loved one. Breast cancer education can change lives.


Be well,

Dr. Esra Shermadou

 


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