Oncologist Emphasizes Early Detection and Healthy Living During Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Published 6:03 pm Wednesday, October 8, 2025
DANVILLE, Ky. — Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers among women, but continued advances in research, screening, and treatment are improving survival rates every year. Dr. Snigdha Nutalapati, a board-certified hematologist/oncologist at Ephraim McDowell Commonwealth Cancer Center, recently discussed risk factors, prevention, and the importance of early detection in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Dr. Nutalapati said breast cancer risk factors can vary, but there are several well-known ones that are important to be aware of. “Risk is higher for females compared to males, older women especially above 50 years, having a first-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) with breast cancer. A family history of ovarian cancer or genetic mutations (like BRCA1 or BRCA2) also increases risk,” she said.
Other factors include long-term use of combined hormone replacement therapy after menopause, early menstruation before age 12, late menopause after age 55, prior chest radiation, obesity after menopause, alcohol use, and lack of exercise. She also noted that African American women are more likely to develop aggressive forms of the disease at younger ages.
For screening, Dr. Nutalapati advised that “women should start regular mammograms at age 45 and continue annually until 54. After 55, you can go every two years unless your doctor suggests otherwise.” While men do not need routine screening, they should remain alert to any breast tissue changes, especially if they have a family history of breast cancer.
She explained that the most common type of breast cancer is invasive ductal carcinoma, which accounts for about 70–80 percent of cases, followed by invasive lobular carcinoma. Treatment varies based on the cancer’s stage and type, often including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy. “Hormone receptor-positive breast cancer grows in response to hormones, like estrogen or progesterone,” she said, while HER2-positive cancers rely on treatments such as Herceptin, and triple-negative cancers are typically treated with chemotherapy and sometimes immunotherapy.
Recent years have brought major progress in oncology. “There are quite a few major advances that have improved survival, such as targeted therapies that target the cancer more precisely for specific tumor types,” Dr. Nutalapati said. These include newer HER2-directed drugs, PIK3CA mutation targeting, and antibody drug conjugates that allow chemotherapy to be delivered more selectively to cancer cells.
She emphasized that early detection remains the single most powerful factor in improving outcomes. “When breast cancer is found early, it’s usually still in the breast and hasn’t spread to the lymph nodes or other parts of the body. This means less aggressive treatment may be needed, more treatment options are available and surgery may be smaller,” she said. “In short, early detection = better outcomes and higher survival.”
Lifestyle choices also play an important role in prevention. “Eating well balanced diet lowers inflammation and cancer risk. Exercising regularly helps with balancing hormones and controlling weight. Limiting alcohol lowers estrogen related risk; quitting smoking reduces overall cancer risk; getting enough sleep and managing stress supports immune function,” Dr. Nutalapati said.
As Breast Cancer Awareness Month continues, Dr. Nutalapati offered a message for the community: “Early detection saves lives. Support, educate, and uplift—because no one should face breast cancer alone. This month is not just about awareness—it’s a time to honor survivors, remember those we’ve lost, and stand with everyone affected by breast cancer. Encourage regular screenings, spread accurate information, and foster compassion.”