Put yourself first: A breast radiologist’s call to action during Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Beyond the pink ribbons and heartfelt campaigns that fill October, Dr. Denise Thigpen, breast radiologist at AdventHealth Avista, reminds us that Breast Cancer Awareness Month carries a vital call to action.

“Breast Cancer Awareness Month is so important because it not only serves as a great time to educate patients about breast health and screening,” says Dr. Thigpen, “but also serves as a helpful yearly reminder to take the time out of our busy lives to care for ourselves.”

A mother herself, Dr. Thigpen understands the tendency many women have to prioritize others over their own health. “We often put ourselves last,” she says. “But when we make time to keep ourselves healthy, we can be more fully present for others in our lives, too.”

The power of annual mammograms

Dr. Thigpen emphasizes that annual mammograms starting at age 40 are critical and for some, even earlier. “We know that the most women’s lives will be saved if we start at age 40 and go EVERY year,” she explains. “Every woman should have a risk-assessment done by age 25 so that she can benefit from early screening if needed. Also, it’s never too late to start! If you are over 40 and you have never had a mammogram, now is the time to start!”

She also dispels a common myth: that mammograms are only necessary for those with symptoms or family history. “Screening mammograms are meant especially for patients with NO symptoms or concerns,” she says. “According to the American Cancer Society, 85% of breast cancers are found in women who have no family history of the disease.”

Early detection saves lives

“I encourage my patients to perform regular self-exams and if you feel any lumps or changes, go see your doctor,” she says. “If you have any nipple discharge or skin changes, you should also go see your doctor.”

Imaging plays a pivotal role in catching breast cancer early. “Our goal when doing a screening mammogram is to find breast cancer early, before you feel a lump or have any other symptoms,” Dr. Thigpen explains. “When we find breast cancer early, we see the best outcomes for patients. We have excellent survival rates, and we can use less aggressive treatments, perform smaller surgeries, and have less of a disruption to your life.”

According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for localized breast cancer is over 99%.

Trends among younger women

Dr. Thigpen notes a troubling trend: rising breast cancer rates among women under 50. “We don’t fully understand the reasons why, but lifestyle and environmental factors may be the cause,” she says. “Another good reason to get your yearly mammogram beginning at age 40.”

Technology that cares

Modern imaging technology has come a long way. “Our imaging today can see inside the breast using ‘3D’ technology called tomosynthesis,” Dr. Thigpen shares. “There have been lots of improvements focused on patient comfort over the years as well.”

For high-risk patients, personalized screening programs are available at AdventHealth Avista. “We calculate your risk at each mammogram appointment and provide a personalized high-risk screening program,” she says.

Supporting loved ones through diagnosis

Dr. Thigpen offers heartfelt advice for supporting someone with breast cancer: “Meet them where they are and don’t bring your own expectations.” Whether it’s a short walk, helping with chores, or simply talking about life beyond cancer, small gestures can make a big impact.

She also suggests other practical ways to be supportive:

• Coordinate meals or childcare
• Help with housekeeping, laundry, changing the sheets
• Curate playlists or binge-worthy TV lists
• Help with yardwork or help care for their pets
• Provide spiritual support
• Give their main support person a break

A radiologist’s purpose

For Dr. Thigpen, the most meaningful part of her work is being there for patients, whether it’s delivering good news, guiding someone through a procedure, or helping a newly diagnosed patient navigate the road ahead.

“Being there for my community is why I am a breast radiologist,” she says.