In 2016 it is estimated that there will be 246,660 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 40,450 breast cancer deaths. Breast cancer is the most common cancer that women face today. Early detection and treatment have been shown to improve survival!

All women are at risk for breast cancer! However, the most common risk factors for breast cancer are being female and growing older. Most women who are diagnosed with breast cancer have no other risk factors. Men can also get breast cancer, but it is very rare. It is 100 times more common in women.

Prevention is key! Talk to your family to learn about your family history. Talk to your provider about your risk and about which screening tests are right for you if you are at higher risk. Have annual clinical breast exams after the age of 40 and mammograms every two years for women aged 50 to 74. Talk to you provider about whether you need one at an earlier age.

The Southern Ute Public Health Nursing Program and the Southern Ute Tribal Health Services Program are coordinating efforts to improve screening rates. “Mammogram Parties” and incentives are being offered for obtaining your mammogram through support of CDPHE. Please call for further information to see if you qualify. Schedule your mammogram now!

Call Susan Turner or Tristan Benally, Public Health Nursing 970-563-4581 or call Kathleen Cajero at the Health Services Division 970-563-0154.

Let’s all turn the key for prevention! Let’s honor survivors and those we have lost to breast cancer this October. Events are being planned throughout the month of October in order to raise awareness to breast cancer prevention.