LRMC emphasizes breast cancer awareness, early detection

Every October, communities and medical facilities worldwide observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month, emphasizing the importance of prevention, screening, and early detection.

At Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, the message extends beyond awareness campaigns. Early detection and preventative care are essential to individual health, family well-being, and military readiness.

For service members, family members, military retirees, and Department of War civilians living overseas, understanding personal risk factors and staying current on recommended screenings can help identify cancer earlier, when treatment may be more effective.

Sgt. 1st Class Ronald Monsen, noncommissioned officer in charge of family medicine at LRMC, said routine breast cancer screenings become increasingly important with age.

“As we get older, routine cancer screenings become more important than ever,” Monsen said. “When it comes to our older population, catching potential health issues early is everything. Keeping up with these screenings on time is the best way to ensure we identify, mitigate, and treat any cancer-related con-cerns before they become serious.”

Individuals with a personal history of breast cancer, a strong family history or known genetic mutations associated with increased risk should consult their health care providers about appropriate screening schedules and specialized protocols.

Monsen also emphasized the importance of recognizing changes in breast appearance or feel and seeking medical evaluation when concerns arise.

“While routine screenings are vital, familiarizing yourself with how your breasts normally look and feel is equally important,” Monsen said. “If you find any noticeable change, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider immediately.”

TRICARE covers screening mam-mo-grams for eligible beneficiaries beginning at age 40, or at age 30 for high-risk patients. LRMC and local military clinics offer women’s health services to help patients schedule routine mammograms and navigate follow-up testing when needed.

Breast cancer can also affect men, although it is much less common in men than in women. Monsen said misconceptions about the disease can prevent men from recognizing symptoms and seeking timely medical care.

“The biggest misconception men have about breast cancer is that only women can get breast cancer,” Monsen said. “This is a dangerous misunderstanding that can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes.”

Screening mammography can detect some breast cancer before a lump can be felt. Anyone noticing a new lump or other concerning change in the breast or underarm area should seek medical evaluation. A health care provider can determine whether diagnostic imaging, a specialist referral or additional testing is appropriate.

Monsen said patients who have concerns about a lump or changes can contact their primary care team to discuss next steps.

Advances in breast imaging, early detection and individualized treatment plans have improved outcomes for many patients, particularly when cancer is diagnosed before it spreads.

For 1st Lt. Gracious Asantewaa, chief of the Army Health Clinics Support Cell at LRMC, breast cancer awareness is also deeply personal. Her grandmother’s experience with the disease shaped her understanding of its impact on families.

“My grandmother fought breast cancer more than once,” Asantewaa said. “Watching her go through treatment for recurring cancer showed me that this disease doesn’t just affect the person diagnosed; it impacts the entire family.”

Asantewaa said her grandmother’s experience brought fear and uncertainty, but also demonstrated her strength, resilience, and determination.

“Her experience taught me that awareness can make a real difference,” Asantewaa said. “Knowing the warning signs, understanding personal risk factors, encouraging regular screenings, and talking openly about breast health can help people seek care earlier and feel less alone.”

Asantewaa said breast cancer awareness supports military readiness by encouraging service members, civilian employees, and family members to take an active role in their health.

“Breast cancer awareness is a readiness issue, because our people are, and always will be, our greatest strength,” Asantewaa said. “Educating our workforce helps build a culture where everyone feels empowered to prioritize their health, schedule their preventive screenings, and encourage their loved ones to do the same.”

She added that awareness also means showing compassion and supporting colleagues, friends, and family members who are facing a diagnosis or undergoing treatment.

“For me, breast cancer awareness is not just a campaign or a month on the calendar it is personal,” said Asantewaa. “It is a way to honor my grandmother, Mary Greenway’s fight, and to help ensure others have the knowledge, support, and encouragement they need.”

Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as a reminder for eligible beneficiaries to review their screening schedules, discuss personal and family medical histories with their providers, and seek care when they notice concerning changes. Taking these steps can support earlier diagnosis, timely treatment and the health of the military community.