Breast Basics

Breast Health 101

Delivering exceptional care begins with empowering patients. When it comes to your breast health, knowledge truly is power.

Did you know that only about 10 percent of breast cancer cases are thought to be hereditary? Or that making better lifestyle choices could reduce your risk of breast cancer? Or that screening mammograms can save lives?

Holland Hospital Breast Care will help answer your questions, as well as sort common myths from facts, arming you with knowledge and support you can trust. Remember, most women who are at average risk should begin getting annual mammograms at age 40. And if you notice any changes in your breasts, make an appointment with your doctor right away, even if your most recent mammogram was normal.

Mammograms, clinical breast exams and self-awareness of your breasts are a highly effective combination for early detection, when breast cancer is most treatable. For more on breast health and breast imaging, watch this presentation by Dr. Susan Ervine, Co-Medical Director, Holland Hospital Breast Care.

Determining Your Risk

While there is no way to guarantee avoiding breast cancer, there’s a lot you can do to lower your risk. Understanding your personal risk factors for breast cancer—especially those you can control—is a great first step.

Learn more about Holland Hospital's High Risk Breast Clinic.

  • Genetic Counseling and Testing: You’ve probably heard if breast cancer doesn’t run in your family, you won’t get it. The truth is, inherited abnormal genes only cause five to 10 percent of breast cancer cases. We can help you and your family understand your individual risk of inheriting a breast cancer gene. Our specialists are trained to advise you on your risk, and can refer you to genetic counseling and testing as needed. From there, they’ll continue to offer guidance on how to incorporate your test results into your risk-reduction and follow-up care plan.