Understanding Breast Cancer: Information and Support

Imagine sitting across from your doctor and hearing the words “You have breast cancer.” It’s a moment no one wants to experience, yet 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will face this reality. The good news? Early detection saves lives.

By understanding the risk factors of breast cancer and the resources available to you, you can have an upper hand in your fight against breast cancer. Below, we’ll explore key information for understanding breast cancer, as well as the support you have if you are diagnosed.

Risks Associated with Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, accounting for 16% of all cancer diagnoses in 2024. In 2025 alone, the Foundation estimates that 316,950 women and 2,800 men will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer, the most common type of breast cancer.

Breast cancer doesn’t have a single cause; a combination of environmental, lifestyle, and genetic factors can contribute to risk. While some factors are beyond your control, others are changeable with informed choices.

• Age: The likelihood of breast cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in women over 50.
• Genetic Mutations: Mutations in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 can significantly raise the risk.
• Family History: If you have close relatives who have had breast cancer, your risk may increase.
• Reproductive History: Early menstruation (before age 12) or late menopause (after 55) raises lifetime estrogen exposure, which can heighten risk.
• Lifestyle Choices: Excessive alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, smoking, and an unhealthy diet can increase risk.
• Obesity: Carrying extra weight, especially post-menopause, is a major risk factor for breast cancer.

The latter two risks are more modifiable risks, meaning you can take proactive steps to protect your health. Even if you fall into a high-risk category exhibiting many of these risk factors, early intervention remains key.

Why Screenings are Essential

Screenings save lives. Breast cancer, when caught early, is much easier to treat, and survival rates are significantly higher. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, the 5-year relative survival rate for breast cancer when caught in the earliest, localized stages is 99%. The key lies in routine check-ups and self-awareness.

Mammograms:

Mammograms are the gold standard for detecting breast cancer early, sometimes even before symptoms arise. At St. John's Health, we recommend a yearly mammogram for all women, starting at age 40.

Early detection saves lives. If you’re due for a mammogram, don’t wait. Schedule yours today at St. John's Health by calling 307.739.7531.

Breast Self-Exams (BSE):

Although clinical trials don’t always emphasize self-exams, being familiar with your body can help you notice unusual changes, such as lumps, swelling, or skin dimpling. Many people have detected breast cancer early through simple self-monitoring.

Clinical Exams:

If you’re at higher risk, your doctor may suggest more frequent clinical exams or additional imaging studies, such as MRIs. This ensures that any irregularities are flagged and addressed as early as possible.

Support Systems for Those Affected

The breast cancer community is strong, compassionate, and full of resources aimed at helping individuals and families through every stage of the disease. No one should face this battle alone.

• Support Groups: Local and online support groups provide a safe space to share experiences, vent frustrations, and find encouragement. Organizations like Breast Cancer Action and the American Cancer Society (ACS) often host these platforms.
• Surgical Services: At St. John's Health, our board-certified General Surgeon for breast cancer offers top-line surgical care for your cancer care needs.
• Counseling Services: Mental health is as important as physical health. Consider therapy for emotional support and practical advice for managing life’s changes.
• Financial Support: Treatment costs can pile up. Foundations, non-profits, and government programs often assist with medical expenses, transportation, and accommodations during treatment. Eligible patients are encouraged to apply for need-based assistance.
• Aftercare: Survivors often benefit from ongoing care, including physical therapy, reconstructive surgery, and survivorship plans tailored to their individual needs.

Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. It’s okay to feel scared, angry, or uncertain. But you don’t have to face this journey alone.

RELATED: Your Breast Cancer Care Specialist: Oncologist Melissa Cohen, MD

Reducing the Risk of Breast Cancer

While no method guarantees total prevention, there are actionable, evidence-backed steps you can take to reduce risk.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
• Exercise Regularly: Moderate physical activity, such as walking or cycling, for at least 150 minutes a week can help regulate hormones and boost your immune system.
• Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking: These habits are linked to higher cancer rates. Minimizing or quitting these substances can improve health dramatically.
• Breastfeed: For mothers, breastfeeding can slightly lower the risk of developing breast cancer, particularly for women having multiple children.
• Stay Consistent with Screenings: Early detection is one of the best ways to improve outcomes in case cancer does develop. 
• Hormone Therapy: Hormone therapies, such as tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors, can slightly reduce the recurrence of breast cancer following surgery. However, there is evidence that postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can actually increase risk. Speak with your provider before undergoing hormone therapy.

Cancer Care in Jackson Hole

A breast cancer diagnosis can be life-changing, but it’s important to remember that you are never alone. At St. John's Health, we offer comprehensive breast cancer services, including:

• Ultrasound, stereotactic, and MRI-guided breast biopsies, as well as sentinel node mapping
• A full-time board-certified oncologist on-site
• A Tumor Board comprised of multi-disciplinary providers ensures high-quality management of your cancer treatments
• Individualized treatment plans
• And more

Together, we’ll help you detect, treat, and beat breast cancer.

Explore our breast cancer treatment options and support services at St. John's Health or call 307.739.7531 to schedule your mammogram today.