Breast Health & Flu Season Reminders

O C T O B E R 2 0 2 5 E M P L O Y E E N E W S L E T T E R Live Well. Work Well. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to focus on women’s health and the importance of catching problems early. While mammograms and regular doctor visits are important, knowing your own body is just as critical. One way to do this is through a monthly breast self-exam. When you understand what’s normal for you, it’s easier to notice changes and talk to your doctor right away. Early detection matters - breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, and 1 in 8 women will face it in their lifetime. The good news is that if it’s found early, the survival rate is nearly 99%. Performing Self-exams In between clinical exams and mammograms, women should complete BSEs to become familiar with the look and feel of their breasts when healthy, so that changes can be detected as early as possible. 1. Lie down and place one arm behind your head. 2. Use the pads of your middle three fingers on the opposite hand to check your breast tissue in overlapping, dime-sized circular motions. 3. Use an up-and-down pattern starting at your underarm and moving all the way to the middle of your breastbone to feel for changes. 4. Standing with your hands on your hips, look in a mirror for changes in size, shape, and contour coloring of your breasts. Breast Tissue Changes Contact your doctor if you notice any of the following changes to your breast or nipple tissue while doing a breast self-exam: • Lumps • Dimpling, red or scaly skin • Nipple discharge or pain It is normal for breast tissue to change during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause, or while taking birth control pills or other hormone therapy. However, if you notice changes at other times in your life, it is strongly suggested that you visit a doctor immediately. Take Charge of Breast Health