J. Sherrod, MD, FACOG

An estimated 232,340 female cases and 2,240 male cases were diagnosed in the United States in 2013.  Breast cancer has an approximately 12% occurrence rate, making it by far one of our most common cancers.

How can you prevent Breast Cancer?

There is no way to prevent Breast Cancer; early detection is the key by learning self-breast exams starting at a very young age. It is an important part of helping to decrease the severity of the disease, because if caught early outcomes are much better.

How young do we need to be teaching Self Breast Exams?

Once your menstrual cycle begins, or puberty starts, it is important to educate your child about self-exams and the importance of them. Unfortunately, there have been cases of breast cancer as young as ten years old.

When do I need a Mammogram?

Mammogram testing is recommended yearly starting at 40 years old (although some studies say to wait until 50 years old).

I have a family history of Breast Cancer, anything else I can do?

BRACA testing is available for those with a strong family history of breast cancer. If one of two gene mutations is present, the risk of breast cancer can be as high as 85%.