For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re taking a closer look at researchers in the College of Health whose work directly impacts the health and well-being of women.
Associate Professor Veronica Irvin studies interval breast cancers, which are aggressive and under-researched and develop between regular screening visits.
By talking with women who may be at higher risk for interval breast cancer—including younger women, women with dense breasts, those using hormone replacement therapy or those with a family history of breast cancer—Veronica works to help improve access to care for quick follow-up and treatment.
What inspired you to study interval breast cancers?
I was working on research related to the benefits and harms of breast cancer screening. I have a family history of breast cancer and never thought about the harms of screening.
One of the harms is the false sense of security that screenings can provide. Many people don’t think about breast cancer until their next screen; however, cancer can arise at any time.
Screenings are meant to detect cancer that is too small or early to notice on your own.
Interval breast cancers can make up 10-30% of breast cancer cases, which surprised me. Women who had interval breast cancer were shocked because they had a mammogram in the last year that was normal.
You need to stay vigilant and pay attention to your breasts all year long.
How has your work impacted the health and well-being of women?
It brings attention to this issue and makes women aware of interval breast cancers. I am working with students to develop educational materials that can be shared to increase awareness.
What message would you like to send during Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
Don’t forget about your breasts!
If you notice anything unusual — lump, cyst, irregular shape, redness, burning sensation — call your provider quickly and get seen.
If you don’t have a regular provider or don’t have access to a provider, the Pink Lemonade Project and the CDC’s National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program can help.
Learn more about interval breast cancer from Associate Professor Veronica Irvin: