Breast Cancer Awareness: The Importance of Early Detection and Regular Screening

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the United States. But it’s about more than wearing a pink ribbon for a month. It means knowing your risk, keeping up with recommended screenings, and speaking up when something doesn't seem right.

There are several types of breast cancer, and each can behave differently from one person to another. Still, a common thread is that detecting cancer before it spreads can make a meaningful difference in treatment outcomes.

At Genesis Personal Healthcare Medicine, we focus on women’s health year-round. At our primary care telehealth practice based in New York City, Gritz Pierre, MD, MBA, and our team understand that contemplating or receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming.

However, understanding when to begin screening, what to expect, and which breast changes deserve attention can help women take a more proactive approach to their health.

Why early detection is so vital

Treatment for early-stage breast cancer may involve radiation, surgery, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these approaches, depending on the type and stage.

When cancer is found at a later stage, treatment may be more extensive and often more invasive when it comes to surgical procedures. Waiting for a lump or other change to appear may mean missing an opportunity to detect the disease sooner.

The goal of screening isn’t to guarantee that breast cancer will never develop. Instead, it’s designed to find certain cancers earlier, sometimes before a woman notices anything unusual.

The importance of mammograms

A mammogram uses low-dose X-rays to create images of breast tissue. It remains one of the primary tools used to screen for breast cancer. Modern 3D digital mammograms offer significantly more detail than traditional 2D versions and are especially beneficial for dense breast tissue.

Screening recommendations vary somewhat among medical organizations, and the right schedule can depend on your age, personal history, family history, genetic risk, and other factors.

For women of average risk, routine mammography generally begins around age 40. Women with a higher-than-average risk may need to begin screening earlier or have additional imaging, such as breast MRI.

During a women’s health telehealth visit, Dr. Pierre can tailor an appropriate screening plan based on your age and family history rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all schedule.

Know what’s normal for you

Regular screening is important, but it’s only part of breast health. Paying attention to changes in your breasts can also help you recognize when something needs evaluation.

Breast changes that require medical follow-up include:

• A new lump
• Changes in breast size or shape
• Skin dimpling
• Nipple inversion
• Unusual nipple discharge
• Thickening or swelling in the underarm area

Many breast changes are not cancer. Even so, an unfamiliar or persistent change deserves attention. Getting it checked is far more useful than trying to determine its cause on your own.

Don't let fear delay screening

It’s understandable to feel anxious about mammograms or the possibility of receiving an abnormal result. However, avoiding screening because of that anxiety can create a different problem: a potentially important finding may go undetected.

An abnormal mammogram doesn’t automatically mean cancer. In many cases, additional imaging or a biopsy shows that the finding is benign.

The important thing is to keep the process moving. Screening works best when recommended follow-up doesn’t fall through the cracks.

Benefits of telehealth

Telehealth can’t replace a mammogram, breast examination, or biopsy when you need those services. However, it can make some parts of breast health care easier to manage.

A virtual consultation with Dr. Pierre includes a discussion of personal or family risk factors for breast cancer, questions about symptoms, recommendations for a screening schedule, and determining whether an in-person appointment is appropriate. It’s also a convenient way to discuss screening results and next steps if necessary.

For people who have difficulty taking time away from work, arranging transportation, or traveling long distances, telehealth can make it easier to stay connected with your healthcare team.

Make screening part of your routine

Let Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026 motivate you to be proactive about your breast health and keep up with important screenings. 

For patient-focused care from an expertly trained physician, partner with Genesis Personal Healthcare Medicine. Call 917-230-3285 today or book your consultation online.