October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Houston Methodist West Hospital is encouraging women of all ages to take proactive steps towards understanding their risk factors, scheduling regular screenings, and engaging in meaningful conversations about breast health.


DID YOU KNOW?

• Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the U.S., accounting for 32%

of newly diagnosed cancers.

• An estimated 1 in 8 women will face a breast cancer diagnosis in their lifetime.

• Every 48 seconds, someone around the world dies from breast cancer – which is more

than 1,800 women and men every day.

• Women who started their menstrual cycle before age 12 and started menopause after age

55, are at higher risk of breast cancer due to longer hormone exposure.

• Breast cancer symptoms can appear as a lump in the breast, nipple tenderness, a change

in skin texture or appearance, and nipple discharge.


“Breast cancer is most treatable when caught early. That’s why routine screenings and

understanding your personal risk factors are critical,” said Dr. Candy Arentz, Breast Surgical

Oncologist at Houston Methodist West Hospital. “Awareness is powerful, but it’s action that saves lives. By encouraging screenings, sharing knowledge, and supporting one another, we can build a community where early detection becomes the norm and survival rates continue to rise.”


FIVE TIPS FOR BREAST HEALTH

1. Understand your risk factors: Age, family history, genetic predispositions (BRCA genes) and

lifestyle choices all play a factor.

2. Prioritize screenings: One of the best ways to catch breast cancer is by having yearly

mammograms after age 40 – or even earlier if you have a family history of breast cancer.

3. Adopt a healthy lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet and exercise routine and limit alcohol

consumption

4. Perform self-examinations: Monthly self-exams can help you detect changes like lumps or

unusual textures early. The best time to self-exam is a week after menstruation when your

breasts are less likely to be swollen or tender.

5. Spread awareness: Encourage loved ones to stay informed and proactive.


TAKE ACTION THIS OCTOBER

Houston Methodist encourages women and their families to use Breast Cancer Awareness Month as a reminder to schedule screenings and talk to their healthcare providers. For more information or to

schedule an appointment with a Houston Methodist West breast care provider, visit www.houstonmethodist.org/locations/breast-care-center/katy-west/ or call 832-522-7465.

About Houston Methodist West Hospital

Houston Methodist West Hospital is committed to leading medicine in the Katy and West Houston communities by delivering the Houston Methodist standard of unparalleled safety, quality, service and innovation. The growing campus offers 271 beds and access to the most innovative medical and surgical care available, including robotic and minimally invasive surgery, full-spectrum heart care, state-of-the-art imaging, comprehensive cancer care, childbirth center with a level III NICU, neurology and neurosurgery, orthopedics and sports medicine, outpatient rehabilitation and 24/7 emergency services. For more information, visit houstonmethodist.org/west or call 832-522-5522.