Tina's Breast Cancer Story | Early Detection 101
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a crucial reminder that this disease impacts thousands of lives every year. In North Carolina alone, over 6,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer annually. While this number can feel daunting, the story of one Triad woman offers a powerful testament to the value of listening to your body and the life-saving impact of early detection. Learn how to improve your wellness routine in this WFMY 2 Your Well-Being conversation with Lauren Evans, Mammographer, with Cone Health Imaging at MedCenter Mebane.
For 58-year-old Tina Williams, Ebenezer Church of Christ in Burlington is a place of peace, where she volunteers her time as a receptionist, cooks for kids, and drives the church van. But in November 2023, her life took an unexpected turn when she began experiencing pain in her right breast.
Though she initially pushed off calling a doctor for two months, Williams knew something was wrong from within. "I did not have honestly a reaction," she said of her diagnosis, "because I already knew it from within."
Stage 1 breast cancer was confirmed in her right breast with a mammogram. After a follow-up, she learned the cancer was also in her left breast. Despite having no family history, Williams credits her faith in God and her willingness to listen to her body with making all the difference.
Following her diagnosis, Williams underwent a couple of surgeries and radiation treatment. While radiation made her tired, she is now a cancer-free survivor.
When should I start getting mammograms?
The American College of Radiology recommends women start getting yearly screening mammograms at age 40.
However, if you have a strong family history (mother, aunt, grandmother) or other high-risk factors, you should talk to your primary care doctor about a cancer risk assessment.
If your calculated risk is over 20%, you should start screening mammograms earlier. It is vital to share family health history to ensure your loved ones are aware of their potential risk.
What are the different types of mammograms?
Williams’ journey highlights why doctors and medical professionals consistently stress the importance of screening. As Dr. Timothy Finnegan with Cone Health Cancer Center at Alamance Regional, explains, "Seeing breast cancers at an earlier stage because of early detection significantly helps how we treat this because it's much easier to treat at an earlier stage."
Lauren Evans, a mammographer with Cone Health Imaging, reinforced that early detection is what saves lives and provides more treatment options. Understanding the types of mammograms is the first step:
-
Screening Mammogram ("Annual Mammogram")
At age 40 and onward, this is part of your regular, yearly check-up. This is the one people are generally referring to when they say, "Go get your mammogram."
-
Diagnostic Mammogram
This is performed when there is an issue, such as a lump, pain, or an abnormal finding from a screening mammogram or clinical exam.
What are the signs of breast cancer?
Women should be vigilant about any changes in their breasts. If you notice any of the following, do not wait—see your healthcare provider right away:
What if I don't see any signs?
A common misconception is that if you don't notice any symptoms, you don't need a mammogram.
This is false. Most breast cancers are diagnosed in women who have no symptoms. Early detection truly is key, and catching it at its earliest stage offers the best prognosis and most treatment options.
What is "dense breast tissue"?
If you are told you have dense breast tissue, it means your breasts have more fibroangular tissue than fat. This is not related to breast size or age—it is simply a part of your body's makeup. Dense breast tissue can increase your cancer risk and makes cancer harder to see on a standard mammogram.
For women with dense breasts, a 3D mammogram (tomosynthesis) is often non-negotiable, as it is the best option for clear imaging. Your doctor will use the results of your screening to determine if this is necessary for you.
How can I reduce my risk?
In addition to annual screenings, there are lifestyle factors that all women can adopt to help reduce their breast cancer risk:
Get Care Now
Schedule your screening today. Remember to wear a two-piece outfit and avoid deodorant or lotion on the day of your mammogram.
It takes just a few minutes, usually between 5 and 10 minutes, and it is a powerful action you can take to protect your health.
