Breast Cancer Awareness & Screening in Greene County

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, but early detection can save lives. Knowing the risks, getting regular screenings, and acting quickly if something seems unusual are key to protecting your health.

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. It can occur in both women and men, though it is far more common in women. The risk increases with age, family history, certain genetic factors, and lifestyle influences.

Signs & Symptoms to Watch For

• A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
• Change in breast size, shape, or appearance
• Skin changes such as dimpling, redness, or peeling
• Nipple discharge or inversion
• Persistent pain in the breast or nipple

Even if you have no symptoms, regular screenings are essential, as many cancers are detected before signs appear.

Screening Recommendations

• Mammogram: Women age 40–74 are generally recommended to have a mammogram every 1–2 years. Discuss with your doctor the best schedule for you.
• Clinical Breast Exam: Regular exams by a healthcare provider can help detect changes.
• Self-Awareness: Learn the normal look and feel of your breasts to notice changes early.

Why Screening Matters in Greene County

Early detection is crucial. In rural areas like Greene County, healthcare resources may be limited, and travel for care can be challenging. Getting screened on schedule helps catch issues early, reducing the need for more complex treatment and improving survival rates.

Where to Get Screened

Greene County residents can access breast cancer screening and related services at:

• Greene County Community Health, Catskill
• Greene County Public Health, Catskill
• Prime Columbia Greene Medical, Catskill
• Sun River Health Hudson, Hudson
• Greene Medical Imaging, Catskill

Check with your healthcare provider about scheduling a mammogram or exam. Many clinics offer low-cost or sliding-scale services for those who need financial assistance.

Reducing Your Risk

While some risk factors like age or family history can’t be changed, healthy habits can help lower your risk:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Avoid smoking
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

What should you do?

If a screening mammogram is abnormal, doctors use more tests to find out if it is breast cancer. They may refer women to a breast specialist or a surgeon. This does not mean that she has cancer or that she needs surgery. These doctors are experts in diagnosing breast problems. Breast ultrasound. A machine that uses sound waves to make pictures, called sonograms, of areas inside the breast. Diagnostic mammogram. If you have a problem in your breast, such as lumps, or if an area of the breast looks abnormal on a screening mammogram, doctors may have you get a diagnostic mammogram. This is a more detailed X-ray of the breast. Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A kind of body scan that uses a magnet linked to a computer. The MRI scan will make detailed pictures of areas inside the breast. Biopsy. This is a test that removes tissue or fluid from the breast to be looked at under a microscope and do more testing. There are different kinds of biopsies (for example, fine-needle aspiration, core biopsy, or open biopsy). Staging If breast cancer is diagnosed, other tests are done to find out if cancer cells have spread within the breast or to other parts of the body. This process is called staging. Whether the cancer is only in the breast, is found in lymph nodes under your arm, or has spread outside the breast determines your stage of breast cancer. The type and stage of breast cancer tells doctors what kind of treatment you need. 

Early detection saves lives. Don’t wait for symptoms—schedule your mammogram, talk to your doctor about breast health, and encourage friends and family to do the same.