by Jessica Mason Hewitt | Oct 1, 2025 | Breast Cancer
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of prevention, screening, and treatment progress against one of the most common cancers affecting women. While breast cancer remains a serious health concern, advances in detection and therapy are giving patients more hope than ever before.
Understanding the Numbers
Breast cancer remains the most common cancer in women in the United States, except for skin cancers. Approximately 1 in 8 women will develop the disease during their lifetime. While these statistics may seem concerning, there’s reason for hope: when detected early, the 5-year survival rate for localized breast cancer is nearly 99%. This highlights the critical importance of awareness, screening, and early detection.
Key Risk Factors to Know
Some risks cannot be changed, while others can be managed through lifestyle choices.
Inherent Risk Factors
- Age – risk increases with age, especially after 50
- Gender – women are at much higher risk than men
- Family history of breast or ovarian cancer
- Genetic mutations – BRCA1 or BRCA2 are the most well known
- Personal history of breast cancer or certain benign breast conditions
- Dense breast tissue
- Previous chest radiation therapy
- Early menstruation (before age 12) or late menopause (after age 55)
Modifiable Risk Factors
- Alcohol consumption – even moderate drinking increases risk
- Obesity, specifically after menopause
- Lack of physical activity
- Certain types of hormone replacement therapy
- Smoking
- High fat diet
- Low fruit and vegetable intake
- Reproductive factors – having no pregnancies or first pregnancies after the age of 30
Having risk factors does not guarantee a diagnosis but understanding them helps guide screening and lifestyle decisions.
Current Screening Guidelines: The Power of Early Detection
Early detection saves lives, and screening recommendations have evolved based on the latest research and evidence.
National Guidelines
According to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommends women start annual mammograms at age 40 as long as the woman is in good health and has a life expectancy of 10 years or more.
High Risk Individuals
Women with a strong family history, BRCA mutations, or prior chest radiation may need earlier and more frequent screening, sometimes starting in their 20s-30s. Additional imaging such as MRI may be recommended.
Self-Awareness
Knowing how your breasts normally look and feel remains an important tool. Report changes such as new lumps, swelling, nipple discharge, or skin dimpling to your healthcare provider right away.
Advances in Breast Cancer Treatment
Treatment is becoming more personalized, precise, and effective thanks to medical innovation.
- Immunotherapy: drugs like pembrolizumab (Keytruda) have changed the outlook for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). These immune checkpoint inhibitor treatments help the patient’s own immune system recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively.
- Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADCs): new therapies, including Trodelvy, deliver chemotherapy directly to cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. Combined with Keytruda, Trodelvy has recently shown a 35% reduction in disease progression risk in advanced TNBC.
- Targeted Therapies: Targeted therapies, including CDK4/6 inhibitors, HER2-directed drugs, and PARP inhibitors, are improving outcomes for many patients with specific tumor profiles.
- Surgical and Radiation Advances:
- Oncoplastic surgery allows cancer removal with immediate reconstruction
- Sentinel node biopsy reduces the need for extensive lymph removal
- Hypofractionated radiation delivers therapy in fewer sessions with equal effectiveness
- Neoadjuvant Therapy: treatments given before surgery can shrink tumors, allow less invasive surgery, and guide therapy choices.
Taking Action: What You Can Do
- Stay current with screening recommendations for your age and risk level
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle – stay active, keep a healthy weight, and limit alcohol
- Know your family history and ask if genetic testing may be appropriate
- Be aware of changes in your breasts and speak with your provider if something seems unusual
- Don’t skip screenings – early detection saves lives
Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider:
- Am I at higher-than-average risk for breast cancer?
- When should I start screening, and how often?
- Would I benefit from genetic counseling?
- What symptoms should prompt me to call your office?
A Message of Hope
Today, more people are surviving breast cancer and living well during and after treatment. Clinical trials, precision medicine, and supportive care continue to improve outcomes.
At Lowcountry Oncology Associates, we are committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive breast cancer care. Whether you’re due for your first mammogram, concerned about symptoms, or seeking advanced treatment, our team is here to guide and support you.
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, take charge of your health, schedule your screening, know your risk, and share the importance of early detection with loved ones.
To schedule an appointment or learn more about our services, please contact our office at (843)790-8280 or visit www.lowcountryoncology.com. We’re here to support you on your health journey.
by Jessica Mason Hewitt | May 12, 2025 | Breast Cancer
Understanding Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a unique and aggressive form of breast cancer that requires special attention and understanding. Here’s what you need to know about TNBC, its characteristics, and the latest research.
What is Triple-Negative Breast Cancer?
Triple-negative breast cancer is a subtype of breast cancer that does not have the three common receptors known to fuel most breast cancer growth: estrogen, progesterone, and HER2/neu. This means that TNBC does not respond to hormonal therapy or therapies that target HER2 receptors.
Who is at Risk?
TNBC is more likely to affect younger people, African Americans, Hispanics, and those with a BRCA1 gene mutation. It represents about 10-15% of all breast cancers.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The symptoms of TNBC are similar to other types of breast cancer and can include:
- A new lump or mass in the breast or underarm
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Skin changes on the breast, such as dimpling or redness
- Nipple changes, including inversion or discharge
- Breast or nipple pain
- Swelling of all or part of the breast
- Swollen lymph nodes under the arm or near the collar bone
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical exams, imaging tests (like mammograms and ultrasounds), and biopsies to confirm the absence of the three receptors
Treatment Options
Treatment for TNBC often involves a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Unlike other breast cancers, TNBC does not respond to hormonal therapy or HER2-targeted treatments, making chemotherapy a crucial part of the treatment plan
Latest Research and Advances
Recent studies have shown promising developments in the treatment and understanding of TNBC:
- Immune Cells and Prognosis: Research indicates that high levels of immune cells within TNBC tumors may be associated with a lower risk of recurrence and better survival rates, even without chemotherapy
- New Therapies: Ongoing research is exploring new treatment options, including targeted therapies and immunotherapies, to improve outcomes for TNBC patients
Living with Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Living with TNBC can be challenging, but support from healthcare providers, family, and community can make a significant difference. Regular follow-ups, a healthy lifestyle, and staying informed about the latest research are essential steps in managing this condition.
Conclusion
Triple-negative breast cancer is a complex and aggressive form of breast cancer that requires specialized treatment and care. Understanding the risks, symptoms, and latest research can empower patients and their loved ones to take proactive steps in managing this disease.
Stay informed, stay vigilant, and take care of your health.
by Jessica Mason Hewitt | May 12, 2025 | Breast Cancer
Recognizing the Early Signs of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a condition that affects many people worldwide, and early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Understanding the early symptoms can help you take timely action. Here are some common early signs of breast cancer to be aware of:
- A New Lump or Mass
One of the most common early signs of breast cancer is the presence of a new lump or mass in the breast or underarm area (not all breast lumps are cancer, but they should be evaluated by a healthcare provider). These lumps are often painless, hard, and have irregular edges, but they can also be soft, round, and tender.
- Changes in Breast Size or Shape
Noticeable changes in the size or shape of your breast can be a sign of breast cancer. This could include swelling in part of the breast or an overall change in the breast’s contour
- Skin Changes
Keep an eye out for any unusual changes in the skin of your breast. This can include dimpling, redness, or a rash. Sometimes, the skin may appear thickened or have a texture similar to an orange peel
- Nipple Changes
Changes in the nipple, such as inversion (turning inward), discharge (other than breast milk), or pain, can also be early indicators of breast cancer. Any unusual discharge, especially if it is bloody, should be checked by a healthcare provider
- Breast or Nipple Pain
While breast cancer is often painless, some individuals may experience pain or tenderness in the breast or nipple area. Persistent pain that does not go away should be evaluated
- Swelling or Thickening
Swelling or thickening of part of the breast, even if no lump is felt, can be a sign of breast cancer. This symptom can sometimes be mistaken for an infection or other benign condition.
- Swollen Lymph nodes
Swollen lymph nodes under the arm or near the collarbone may indicate breast cancer, even before the primary tumor in the breast becomes detectable by touch.
Taking Action
Being familiar with the normal appearance and feel of your breasts is essential for maintaining breast health. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for further evaluation. Early detection through regular self-exams and mammograms can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.
Remember, these symptoms can also be caused by conditions other than cancer. However, it’s always better to be cautious and get any unusual changes checked out.
Stay informed, stay vigilant, and take care of your health.
