Doctor encourages breast cancer screening all year as early detection improves

As Breast Cancer Awareness Month draws to a close, physicians are reminding people that early detection and prevention should remain a priority throughout the year.

Dr. Courtney Olmsted, a general surgeon with CarolinaEast, said wider screening efforts are helping doctors catch breast cancer at its earliest stages. She noted that nationwide, 66 percent of breast cancers are identified before the disease has spread, a development that is helping save lives.

Olmsted also pointed to lifestyle habits that may lower risk, such as eating well, managing weight and staying active.

“Everything from a healthy diet - a diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables - lean meats - minimizing red meat - to maintaining a healthy weight - also, exercise can be helpful,” Olmsted said.

She added that women at average risk should begin annual mammograms at age 40.