Grabinski: Female breast cancer deaths are on the rise in Arizona – what you need to know

In Arizona, female breast cancer was the No. 1 cancer diagnosis in the state from 2017 to 2021.

An average of 902 women in Arizona died from breast cancer each year from 2018 to 2022, with 65.1% of those deaths occurring in women 65 and older. The Arizona Department of Health Services found that between 2018 and 2022, the latest data available, there was a 6.2% increase in the rate of female breast cancer deaths in Arizona.

According to the Center for Disease Control, breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the U.S. In 2021, there were about 272,454 new cases of breast cancer reported in females in the U.S.

While breast cancer is mostly found in women, about 1 out of every 100 diagnoses in the U.S. is found in men. In addition, non-Hispanic Black women die from breast cancer at a higher rate than other racial and ethnic groups.

The month of October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a health observance that reminds us to be aware of the symptoms and risk factors for breast cancer, as well as steps we can take to improve our health and possibly help lower the risk of getting breast cancer or finding it early when it may be easier to treat.

Mammograms ― X-rays of the breast ― are especially important because they may detect breast cancer when there are no apparent symptoms. When symptoms of breast cancer develop they may include:

• New lump in breast or underarm (armpit)

• Changes in size or shape of breast

• Thickening or swelling in parts of the breast

• Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area

• Pain in any area of the breast

• Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood

• Irritation or dimpling of breast skin

• Redness or flakiness in nipple area or breast

Screening recommendations vary between experts including age to start screening and frequency of screening, but for women at average risk for breast cancer the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends biennial screening mammography from age 40 to 74 years. Women with certain risk factors for breast cancer may need to start screening at an earlier age and may need more frequent screening.

Although breast cancer screening cannot prevent breast cancer, it can help find breast cancer early, when it is easiest to treat. It is a good idea to talk with a doctor about potential benefits and risk factors that come with various types of screenings.

There are two types of mammograms: a standard two-dimensional (2-D) image where each breast is compressed from two different angles (top to bottom and side to side), and a three-dimensional (3-D) image, also known as breast tomosynthesis, where each breast is compressed from two different angles as with a 2-D mammogram but in which the machine takes several low-dose x-rays, moving in an arc direction around the breast. While 3-D mammograms are increasing in popularity, it may not be available in all areas.

The CDC provides several steps to prepare for a mammogram, such as avoiding deodorants, perfume or powders under the arm or breasts on exam day. Some of these products can show up as white spots on the X-rays.

Find a Health Center is a helpful tool for finding local mammography centers. Check to see that the imaging facility you choose is certified and accepts your insurance. Many organizations offer free mammograms and breast screenings.

The health and medical professionals at Optum - Arizona advise talking with your doctor to discuss health history, recommended preventive screenings and any symptoms you may be experiencing. Let Breast Cancer Awareness Month be a reminder to follow the suggestions here for your health and wellbeing.

Editor’s note: Erica Grabinski is a primary care physician with Optum – Arizona. Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.