Pink breast cancer awareness ribbon on a light background

Breast Cancer Awareness Isn’t Enough: New Research Highlights the Gap Between Knowing the Risks and Taking Action

10/21/2026 | Arizona Health & Living |

New American Cancer Society research reveals that while many women understand breast cancer risk factors, fewer are taking steps that could help reduce their risk. An Optum physician shares what women should know about prevention, symptoms and screening.

By Dr. Erica Grabinski | Optum Arizona

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an important reminder to understand your breast cancer risk. But new research from the American Cancer Society (ACS) reveals a significant gap between knowing what can increase risk and taking action to help protect your health.

The ACS research examined awareness of breast cancer risk factors among women. The findings highlight opportunities to turn awareness into meaningful lifestyle changes.

In Arizona, approximately 900 women died from breast cancer in 2024, according to the latest available state health department data.

Awareness Doesn’t Always Lead to Action

The ACS research found that 91% of women recognize that low physical activity increases breast cancer risk. Yet only 27% meet the recommended weekly activity guidelines of 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity.

Alcohol consumption presents a similar gap. Although 85% of women know that alcohol use increases breast cancer risk, 69% reported drinking.

Changing established habits can be challenging. However, increasing physical activity and reducing or avoiding alcohol are steps people can consider to support their health and potentially lower their risk.

Other factors, including maintaining a healthy weight, can also contribute to overall health and cancer risk reduction.

Why Breast Cancer Screening Matters

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States after skin cancer, accounting for approximately one in three new cancer cases in women each year. Incidence rates are rising by about 1% annually overall and 1.4% annually among women younger than 50.

Although breast cancer primarily affects women, men can develop the disease as well.

Mammograms are especially important because they can detect breast cancer before symptoms become noticeable. Early detection can help identify cancer when treatment may be more effective.

For women at average risk, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening mammograms every two years from ages 40 through 74. Women with a family history, inherited genetic risks or other factors may need a different screening approach. Discuss your individual risk and screening schedule with your healthcare provider.

Know the Signs and Symptoms

Although routine screening is important, knowing what changes to look for can also help people recognize when they should seek medical advice.

Possible signs and symptoms of breast cancer include:

  • A new lump in the breast or underarm.
  • Changes in the size or shape of a breast.
  • Thickening or swelling in part of the breast.
  • Nipple pulling inward or pain in the nipple area.
  • Pain in any area of the breast.
  • Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood.
  • Irritation or dimpling of the breast skin.
  • Redness or flaking around the nipple or on the breast.

These symptoms do not necessarily indicate cancer, but new or persistent changes should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Do not wait for your next routine mammogram if you notice a concerning change.

Take the Next Step for Your Health

Knowing your personal risk is an important starting point. Consider sharing your family and medical history with your healthcare provider, asking about appropriate screening recommendations and discussing any symptoms or concerns.

If you need help locating a health center, the federal Health Resources and Services Administration offers an online tool to find health centers in your area. When choosing a mammography facility, check its certification and whether it accepts your insurance. Some organizations also offer free or low-cost breast screenings for eligible patients.

Breast cancer awareness matters, but awareness is only the beginning. Making informed lifestyle choices, recognizing changes in your body and staying current with recommended screenings can help you take a more active role in your health.

Helpful Resources

About the author: Dr. Erica Grabinski lives and practices in Scottsdale, Arizona.

This article is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice.

Arizona Health & Living highlights businesses, people and community initiatives that support health, wellness and quality of life across Arizona.

Featured Posts

Categories