October is International Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and while breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer for women, it’s also one of the most treatable if diagnosed early. Nurse Lynn Fisher of Washington County Public Health says the disease affects 200,000 American women each year. The best way to diagnose breast cancer early is to receive mammograms once at least every two years after reaching the age of 50, according to Fisher. However, roughly 10% of women diagnosed with breast cancer every year are under the age of 45.

Because of that, Fisher says it’s important for women to do two things in regards to the disease. First is to be aware of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, which can include unexplained lumps in the breast or under arm area, drainage or discharge from nipples, or a change in the shape of the breast. Second, she says they should be talking to their physician frequently if they have a family history of breast cancer. Women with a family history of breast cancer can also start receiving mammograms as early as age 35. If women have any questions about screenings, or notice some of the symptoms, Fisher encourages them to not hesitate in contacting a doctor. She emphasizes early detection is paramount to survival when it comes to breast cancer.