10 Things Every Woman Should Know About Breast Cancer

Artificial intelligence is changing what doctors can learn from a mammogram. Some AI tools help radiologists spot suspicious areas, while others analyze breast tissue patterns to estimate a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer over the next five years—even when no cancer is visible. Image-based AI risk assessment is now part of the 2026 National Comprehensive Cancer Network screening guidelines, marking an important step toward more personalized care. These tools support medical judgment and screening; they do not replace them. 

As we continue exploring advances in breast cancer screening and treatment, HEALing Community Health wants you to have information you can use. From understanding your risk to following up on a mammogram, here are 10 things every woman should know. 

1. Breast cancer diagnoses are rising among younger women.

Although breast cancer death rates have declined, new diagnoses have increased by about 1% annually, with a faster increase—approximately 1.4% annually—among women younger than 50. 

Most diagnoses still occur in middle-aged and older women, but breast health deserves attention at every age. 

2. Healthy habits can lower your risk, but they cannot eliminate it.

Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight—especially after menopause—and limiting or avoiding alcohol can help reduce breast cancer risk. Small, consistent changes are a good place to start: take regular walks, build movement into your day, and choose alcohol-free drinks more often. 

Susan G. Komen offers practical guidance. Healthy habits do not guarantee prevention, however, and a diagnosis does not mean someone did something wrong. 

3. You do not need a family history to develop breast cancer.

Only about 5% to 10% of U.S. breast cancers are linked to a known inherited gene mutation, such as a harmful change in BRCA1 or BRCA2. 

Family history remains important, but it is only part of your risk assessment. Share cancer diagnoses from both your mother’s and father’s families with your provider. That information can help determine whether genetic counseling or testing may be appropriate. 

4. Dense breasts can make cancer harder to find.

Dense breasts contain relatively more glandular and fibrous tissue and less fat. This is common, but it increases breast cancer risk and makes mammograms harder to interpret because both dense tissue and some cancers appear white. 

Your mammogram report should identify your breast density. Ask your provider whether additional imaging would be helpful based on your overall risk. Extra testing is not automatically necessary for everyone with dense breasts. The National Cancer Institute explains what to consider. 

5. Your screening schedule should reflect your age and risk.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends mammograms every two years for women ages 40 to 74 at average risk. Other organizations recommend annual screening. 

Talk with your provider about the right schedule for you. Certain genetic changes, previous breast cancer or other high-risk conditions may call for a different plan. After age 74, decisions about continued screening should be individualized. 

6. Screening coverage is expanding—but check before your appointment.

Most health plans must cover recommended preventive breast cancer screening without patient cost-sharing. Current federal guidelines also include imaging and pathology needed to complete the screening process, along with patient navigation services when needed. 

That does not mean every breast-related visit or test is automatically free. Ask your insurer and imaging center about coverage, network requirements and possible charges. If cost or lack of insurance is a concern, tell your HEAL provider and ask about available resources. 

7. Menopause hormone therapy requires a personal discussion.

Hormone therapy can help relieve menopause symptoms, but its benefits and risks depend on the treatment and your health history. Combined estrogen-plus-progestin therapy is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. 

Discuss the type, dose and duration with your provider, along with other options for managing symptoms. 

8. Breastfeeding can offer some protection.

Breastfeeding is associated with a lower risk of breast cancer. Research suggests that a longer total time spent breastfeeding across pregnancies generally offers greater benefit. 

Breastfeeding does not eliminate risk, and the decision is shaped by each person’s health, circumstances and support. Every woman deserves breast health information and care, whether or not she breastfeeds. 

9. A mammogram callback is not a cancer diagnosis.

Being asked to return for additional imaging can be unsettling. Callbacks are especially common after a first mammogram because the radiologist has no earlier images to compare. 

According to the American Cancer Society, fewer than 1 in 10 women called back for more tests are diagnosed with cancer. You may need clearer images or a closer look at an area of concern. Complete the recommended follow-up and ask when you can expect results. 

10. Early detection matters—and changes deserve prompt attention.

Mammograms can find breast cancer before symptoms develop. When invasive breast cancer is diagnosed before it has spread outside the breast, the five-year relative survival rate exceeds 99%. Individual outcomes vary, but this underscores the value of early detection and timely treatment. 

Between screenings, contact your provider about a new breast or underarm lump, skin dimpling, swelling, unexpected nipple discharge, a nipple that turns inward or persistent pain in one spot. Do not wait for your next routine mammogram to report a change. 

Let HEAL help you take the next step.

Have questions about your risk, a breast change or when to schedule your next mammogram? Contact HEALing Community Health to make an appointment. Your provider can discuss your concerns, review your history, and help coordinate an appropriate screening or diagnostic referral.