Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women. In fact, one in eight women are diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives. It’s important for you to understand your risks and what you can do to prevent breast cancer.
Are You at Risk?
While some women may be more at risk than others, everyone has the potential to get breast cancer.
Your risk of breast cancer increases if you:
- Are age 50 or older
- Have a mother, sister or daughter who had breast cancer
- Started your period before age 12
- Started menopause after age 55
- Had your first child after age 30
- Have no children
- Are overweight or obese after menopause
- Had a biopsy showing abnormal changes
- Had breast cancer before
Women who have a family history of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, dense breasts, or certain genetic mutations are also at greater risk of breast cancer. Other factors, such as smoking and drinking alcohol, can also increase your risk.
Although breast cancer is mostly found in women, 1 out of 100 men can get diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
Symptoms of breast cancer can vary. You may not show any signs. See your doctor right away if you notice these warning signs:
- Lump or node in your breast or armpit
- Swelling or redness on part of your breast
- Irritation or dimpling of your breast skin
- Peeling or flaky skin in your nipple area or your breast
- Any nipple discharge other than breast milk
- Change in the size or the shape of your breast
- Pain in any part of your breast
- Thickening on or near your breast
- Change in the color or texture of the skin on or around your breast
Finding breast cancer early is important. Recommendations for women at average breast cancer risk:
- If you're between the ages of 35 and 44, you have the option to get a mammogram every year.
- If you're between the ages of 45 and 54, get a mammogram every year.
- If you're 55 and older, get a mammogram every other year or continue to get one every year.
Women at higher risk for breast cancer may need screenings earlier and more often. These decisions are important to talk about with your doctor.
Routine annual mammograms for women ages 35 and older are 100% covered with TRS health plans.
What Can You Do?
You can’t change your family history, but there are many ways to help prevent breast cancer. Start with what you can control.
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Get a regular checkup.
Early detection can save your life. Your routine mammogram or well-woman exam can help spot a potential problem sooner and are covered at 100% on all TRS health plans.
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Develop healthy habits.
Limit alcohol and eat low-fat foods and lots of fruits and vegetables.
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Maintain a healthy weight.
Aim for at least 150 minutes of aerobic activity, such as walking or cycling, weekly.
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Don’t smoke or use tobacco.
When it comes to cancer, tobacco is still one of the largest risk factors.
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Get familiar with your breasts.
Knowing how your breasts look and feel can help you notice symptoms that may be of concern. Learn how to give yourself a breast self-exam. Breast self-exams shouldn’t be used as a replacement for a visit with your PCP or OBGYN.
TRS Health Plan Resources
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You can also connect with a plan specialist about coverage and benefits or to get help finding a provider. They can even make an appointment for you! Call 1-866-355-5999 or chat in the app.
Teladoc™
Make a virtual mental health appointment for nonemergency mental health conditions with a licensed therapist, psychologist or psychiatrist.
Know Where to Get Care
If you do get sick or have an accident over the holidays, know where to go for care.
100% Covered Vaccines
Your TRS health plan covers screenings and immunizations at no cost to you.
Member Rewards
Get rewarded for getting cancer screenings like a mammogram or visit with your PCP, OBGYN or specialist with Member Rewards. You can earn up to $599 per year.
Rewards
With the TRS-Care Medicare Advantage plan, you can earn rewards for things you probably already do, like completing your annual physical and wellness visit. Once you have attested to your first Reward item, you will receive a credit on your UnitedHealthcare UCard that you can use to shop for eligible items in-store or online at participating retailers nationwide. For more information about rewards available to you, sign in or register on your member website at retiree.uhc.com/TRS-CareMA.
Get the Care You Need
For more information about plan coverage or to find a primary care physician call UnitedHealthcare toll-free 1-866-347-9507, TTY 711, 7 a.m.-6 p.m. CT, Monday-Friday or sign in or register on your member website at retiree.uhc.com/TRS-CareMA.
Find a Provider
For more information about plan coverage or to find a primary care physician call UnitedHealthcare toll-free 1-866-347-9507, TTY 711, 7 a.m.-6 p.m. CT, Monday-Friday or register on your member website.