Did you know this about breast cancer?

You’ve probably heard that mammograms can help spot breast cancer early, when treatment may be easier and more effective. Here are a few other breast cancer facts we think you’ll find helpful:

• Breast cancer is more common in the left breast than the right.¹
• Having a male relative who’s had breast cancer increases your risks.² 
• About 17% of women diagnosed with breast cancer did not have a lump.³
• Women with dense breasts are 4–5 times more likely to get breast cancer than women with fatty breasts.⁴
• Your race/ethnicity may increase your chances of getting breast cancer.²

Above all else, this is one of the most important facts to remember:

When breast cancer is found early, the five-year relative survival rate is 91%.⁵

Coping with a breast cancer diagnosis

Hearing that you have breast cancer can cause a wide range of emotions –from denial to guilt, from anxiety to downright fear. These feelings are all quite normal. 

Although staying positive is healthy, it’s not always easy. Here are a few ways to help you get through this difficult time:

• Connect with a health coach – Our team of compassionate health coaches are here to help you understand a diagnosis, find support, even connect to a second opinion. Visit myCigna.com > Wellness to learn about the coaching options available to you. 
• Gather your support warriors – Be open with your friends and family about how you’re feeling and let them know what you need (or don’t need). Call a friend who’s been through this. Or join a breast cancer support group. Knowing you’re not alone can help.
• Go out when possible – Take a walk in the sun. Breathe in the fresh air. Do yoga or join an exercise class. These are all great ways to clear your mind and help keep your body healthier. 

The most important thing is to have open communication with your doctor or oncologist. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you don’t understand something. 

1. Demarco, C. “Is breast cancer more common on the left side?” University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. August 9, 2023. https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/is-breast-cancer-more-common-on-the-left-side.h00-159621012.html
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “What Are the Risk Factors for Breast Cancer?” Page last reviewed July 25, 2023.  https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/risk_factors.htm 
3. Koo, M. M., von Wagner, C., Abel, G. A., McPhail, S., Rubin, G. P., & Lyratzopoulos, G. (2017). “Typical and atypical presenting symptoms of breast cancer and their associations with diagnostic intervals: Evidence from a national audit of cancer diagnosis.” Cancer Epidemiology, 48, 140–146. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.canep.2017.04.010
4. Susan G. Komen. Page last updated April 4, 2023. “Factors Linked to Breast Cancer Risk” https://www.komen.org/breast-cancer/risk-factor/factors-that-affect-risk/ 
5. American Cancer Society. “Survival Rates for Breast Cancer.” Page last revised March 1, 2023. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/understanding-a-breast-cancer-diagnosis/breast-cancer-survival-rates.html