Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Know Your Risk, Know the Signs, Get Screened

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about breast cancer, encourage timely screening, and support people affected by the disease.

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide. In 2024, an estimated 2.4 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer globally, and about 694,000 died from the disease. Breast cancer can affect people at any age after puberty, although the risk increases with age. The World Health Organization’s 2026 Breast Cancer Awareness Month theme, “Every story is unique, every journey matters,” recognizes that every person’s experience with breast cancer is different.

Breast cancer can affect people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. Most people diagnosed with breast cancer do not have a known family history of the disease, which is one reason knowing your risk and following recommended screening guidelines are so important.

Screening can help find breast cancer early

Breast cancer screening can help find cancer before symptoms appear, when it may be easier to treat. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women ages 40 to 74 who are at average risk have a screening mammogram every other year. People with a higher risk of breast cancer may need a different screening plan, so talk with your health care provider about what is right for you.

Screening recommendations can change based on your age, personal and family health history, genetic risk and other factors. Your health care provider can help you understand your individual risk and decide when and how often you should be screened.

Know the signs

Some people with breast cancer have no signs or symptoms. Others may notice changes such as:

  • A new lump in the breast or underarm

  • Thickening or swelling in part of the breast

  • Changes in the size or shape of the breast

  • Changes to the skin, including dimpling, irritation or redness

  • Changes to the nipple, including pulling inward or pain

  • Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood

  • Pain in any area of the breast

These symptoms can also be caused by conditions that are not cancer. If you notice a new or unusual change, talk with your health care provider.

Screening should be accessible to everyone

Cost and access should not prevent people from getting recommended cancer screenings. The Maine CDC Breast and Cervical Health Program may be able to help eligible Maine residents pay for breast and cervical cancer screening services.

The program may help cover breast exams, mammograms, and some diagnostic or follow-up services. It also offers help with scheduling, patient navigation, screening reminders, and travel reimbursement.

You may qualify if you are at least 21 years old and meet the program's income requirements. Uninsured and some people with limited Medicaid or private insurance may qualify.

Learn more and take the eligibility prescreen survey at Maine CDC Breast and Cervical Health Program.

Take action this October

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a good reminder to take care of your breast health and encourage others to do the same.

  • Talk with your health care provider about your personal breast cancer risk and recommended screening schedule.

  • Schedule your mammogram if you are due for screening.

  • Pay attention to changes in your breasts and talk with your health care provider about anything unusual.

  • Learn about resources that may help make screening more affordable or accessible.

  • Share trusted information with family, friends, and others in your community.

Early detection can make a difference. This October, take a moment to know your risk, know the signs, and make a plan for your breast health.

Learn more:
CDC Breast Cancer Screening
Maine CDC Breast and Cervical Health Program
Screen Maine

POSTTracey Carlsonmammogram, breast cancer, early detection, cancer, cancer prevention, cancer screening