As October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Health Futures Radio Show recently featured an enlightening interview with Dr. Sommer Gunia, a specialty fellowship-trained breast surgical oncologist from Honor Health Cancer Care and Comprehensive Breast Center of Arizona. Dr. Gunia shared valuable information on breast health, risk factors, and cutting-edge advancements in breast cancer detection and treatment.
For the full episode, CLICK HERE.
You can also find this on any of the following podcasts:
Debunking Breast Cancer Risk Myths
Dr. Gunia stressed an important point: the absence of family history doesn’t mean you’re risk-free. Surprisingly, less than 10% of breast cancers are hereditary. Environmental factors play a crucial role in breast cancer development. Key risk factors include:
- Age at first menstruation
- Age at first childbirth (or not having children)
- Breast tissue density
- History of breast biopsies
- Alcohol consumption patterns
Understanding these factors is crucial for every woman’s health journey.
The Evolving Landscape of Breast Cancer Screening
According to Dr. Gunia, women should obtain their baseline mammogram between ages 35 and 40, followed by annual mammograms starting at 40. Interestingly, recent guidelines have eliminated the upper age limit for mammograms. The new recommendation is to continue screenings as long as a woman maintains a good quality of life and has at least five years of life expectancy.
For women with dense breast tissue, Dr. Gunia recommends supplementing annual mammograms with screening ultrasounds, as dense tissue can obscure abnormalities on mammograms alone.
Breakthrough Technologies in Breast Cancer Care
Dr. Gunia highlighted several exciting advancements in breast cancer treatment:
- SentiMag Technology: This innovative approach uses magnetic nanoparticles to precisely identify sentinel lymph nodes, making surgical procedures less invasive and more accurate.
- Perfusion Imaging: This real-time blood flow assessment technique during reconstructive surgery significantly improves outcomes for patients undergoing mastectomy with immediate reconstruction.
- Expanded Genetic Testing: With over 27 genes now included in testing panels, doctors can provide more comprehensive risk assessments and personalized treatment plans.
Personalized Treatment Approaches
Dr. Gunia emphasized that breast cancer treatment is not one-size-fits-all. While some high-risk patients may opt for preventive mastectomies, many early-stage breast cancers can be effectively treated with lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) followed by radiation therapy.
It’s important to note that even after a mastectomy, some patients may require additional treatments like chemotherapy or hormone therapy to minimize the risk of cancer recurrence or metastasis.
Community Support and Awareness
The interview concluded with information about the Check for a Lump Pink Out 5K event. Scheduled for October 5th at Steele Indian School Park, this event raises funds for local breast cancer programs, providing free education, mammograms, wigs, and support services for Arizona women.
Embracing Proactive Breast Health
As we commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s vital to stay informed about risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options. Regular check-ups, self-awareness, and open dialogue with healthcare providers are essential for maintaining optimal breast health and early detection of any issues.
Dr. Gunia’s insights remind us that breast health is a year-round commitment, not just an October focus. By staying proactive about our health and seeking guidance from specialists like Dr. Gunia, we can take meaningful steps towards breast cancer prevention and early detection.
Remember, knowledge is power in the fight against breast cancer. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritize your breast health every day of the year.
