Breast cancer screening is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health. For Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, Ivan Thomas and Ashley Rice use this Healthy Delaware segment on Good Morning Delaware, brought to you by the Behavioral Health Consortium, to talk about breast health, mammograms, and the resources available to Delaware families.
Why Breast Cancer Screening Matters
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women in the United States, and it can affect men too. Regular breast cancer screening can help find cancer early, often before symptoms appear, when it may be easier to treat. Knowing what is normal for your body and keeping up with recommended screenings are two simple ways to stay ahead of your health.
Breast Changes to Talk About With Your Doctor
Not every change means cancer, but any new or unusual change is worth checking. Contact a healthcare professional if you notice:
- A new lump in the breast or underarm
- Swelling or thickening of part of the breast
- Skin dimpling, puckering, or irritation
- Redness or flaky skin on the nipple or breast
- A nipple that pulls inward, or pain in the nipple area
- Nipple discharge other than breast milk
- A change in the size or shape of the breast
Make a Breast Cancer Screening Plan With Your Doctor
Your screening plan depends on your age, health history, and risk factors. Many national guidelines now recommend that women at average risk begin regular mammograms at age 40. If breast cancer runs in your family, your doctor may suggest starting earlier or adding other tests.
Questions to bring to your next appointment:
- When should I start mammograms, and how often should I get one?
- Does my family history change my screening plan?
- Are there other tests I need based on my risk?
- What should I do if I notice a change between screenings?
Help Paying for Breast Cancer Screening in Delaware
Cost should not keep anyone from getting screened. Screening for Life, a Delaware Division of Public Health program, pays for cancer screening services, including mammograms and clinical breast exams, for eligible Delaware residents. To qualify, you must meet the program’s age, income, and insurance guidelines. Visit the Screening for Life page to see if you qualify and learn how to enroll.
Mobile mammogram events are also coming to communities this October. Read more about free mobile mammograms on Delmarva.
Emotional Support After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis
A breast cancer diagnosis can bring fear, stress, and uncertainty for patients and their families. Caring for your mental health is part of caring for your whole health. The Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition offers education, support programs, and resources for people affected by breast cancer, and the Behavioral Health Consortium can help connect Delawareans with emotional support and counseling resources.
How to Support a Loved One With Breast Cancer
If someone you love has been diagnosed, showing up in small, steady ways can make a real difference:
- Listen without trying to fix everything
- Offer specific help, like rides to appointments, meals, or childcare
- Check in regularly, including after treatment ends
- Respect their choices and their pace
- Encourage them to lean on support groups and professional help
Watch the Full Healthy Delaware Segment
Watch the full conversation above and share it with someone who may be due for a breast cancer screening. For more health conversations, browse our Healthy Delaware segments and the Good Morning Delaware archive on DETV.
💬 Have you scheduled your mammogram this year? Share this post as a reminder for someone you love.
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk with your healthcare provider about your personal screening needs.
