About 1 in 8 females in the U.S. will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. The good news is that survival rates are better than ever.

The breast cancer death rate has dropped 44% since 1989. This is largely due to advances in early detection and treatment.

“We’re fortunate to exist in a time where more women are living long, healthy lives after having breast cancer,” says Dr. Lisa Staton, a medical director for BlueCare Tennessee, a subsidiary of BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee chosen by the state to help manage its Medicaid program. “The key to that survival is getting screened regularly.”

WellTuned asked Dr. Staton to explain what females should know about breast cancer detection and treatments.

Advanced screening, treatments boost survival rates

Dr. Staton: We have more options for screening, diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer than we did a few years ago. Some of the technological advances include:

• 3-D mammograms, which create three-dimensional images of the breast and make it easier to see cancer.
• Gene testing, which includes tests like Oncotype DX that help doctors decide if a patient needs chemotherapy.
• Immunotherapy, which uses medications that will boost your immune system and help you fight off cancer.
• Targeted drugs, which are medications that directly target proteins on the cancer cells to destroy them or keep them from growing.
• Shorter radiation courses, which deliver an effective dose of radiation in a shorter time frame.

Experts also can now test breast cancer tissue for biomarkers, which are molecules that can be a sign of disease. Eventually, this knowledge may help doctors select more effective treatments.

Plus, scientists continue to look for new treatments and prevention methods. For example, some studies are investigating vaccines that might prevent certain kinds of breast cancer.

Screenings key to better outcomes

Dr. Staton: While scientific advances are great, to give yourself the best chance of surviving and thriving after breast cancer, you need to get screened.

Mammograms are still the best way to identify early signs of breast cancer. In fact, studies have shown that mammograms can reduce the risk of dying from breast cancer by 20%. Early detection not only saves lives but can improve your quality of life. When cancer is detected earlier, you can start treatment sooner when it’s more effective and likely less aggressive.

The recommended schedule for mammograms varies, based on your age and your risk factors. Generally speaking, you should start getting mammograms at age 40. Women at average risk should get a mammogram every other year until age 74. This may change if you have a higher risk, like a family history of breast cancer or certain genetic factors. Women with dense breasts may also need to get other kinds of tests in addition to mammograms.

If you’re anxious about getting a mammogram, let your health care provider know. They can explain what to expect. Feel free to ask questions, too.

“Talk to your doctor about your risk factors and medical history,” Dr. Staton says. “Together you can develop a screening plan that gives you the best chance of living a long and cancer free life.”

More from Dr. Staton on WellTuned

Get more information about specific health terms, topics and conditions to better manage your health on bcbst.com. BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee members can access wellness-related discounts on fitness products, gym memberships, healthy eating and more through Blue365®. BCBST members can also find tools and resources to help improve health and well-being by logging into BlueAccess and going to the Managing Your Health tab.