The American Cancer Society estimates 297,790 new breast cancer cases will be diagnosed in women this year. Though incidence rates have increased, fewer women are dying from the disease. The US has seen a 43 percent mortality decline since 1983. Still, certain groups continue to be hit harder than others due to genetics, a lack of resources, including early detection and treatment, and environmental factors. Several studies have examined the risk of breast cancer among nurses and other medical professionals and shown a correlation between the disease and their profession.
Studies
A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine in 2021 followed a group of female health professionals in Taiwan for 35 years. Previous studies had found a higher risk in nurses but no clear relationship among other health professionals, according to the study. They aimed to compare the risk between Taiwanese healthcare professionals and non-health professionals. Their findings concluded there was an “elevated breast cancer risk” among female health professionals.
A 2020 review examined the relationship between night shift work and breast cancer among nurses. The authors reviewed 12 studies and wrote, “Most of the studies found an association between breast cancer and consecutive rotating night shifts prolonged over time… The risk of breast cancer in nurses increased during early adulthood and after five years or more of six or more consecutive [night shifts].”
Still, another report linked the level of an employment position and the stress associated with it as a determiner of cancer risk. A 2013 study showed women in higher-status occupations had a 72 to 122 percent and women in managerial positions a 57 to 89 percent higher risk of breast cancer diagnosis than homemakers or women in lower-status occupations. Still, all women should embrace early detection and proactive care to lower their risk regardless of occupation.
Breast Cancer Facts and Figures
- The Median Age of Diagnosis is 62
- U.S. women have a 13 percent chance of getting breast cancer
- Breast cancer is the second deadliest cancer for women. Lung cancer is No.1
- Black women are more likely to die from breast cancer than any other race or ethnic group.
Action
- Educate patients on the importance of self-examinations
- Encourage a healthy diet and exercise routine
- Routine screenings
- Provide support and resources
This October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Travelers should remind themselves, just as much as they remind their patients, to embrace early detection and treat signs and symptoms seriously.
MPX+
Founded in 1983, MedPro Healthcare Staffing is a Joint Commission-certified provider of temporary and contract healthcare staffing services to facilities across the United States. Travelers can access MedPro’s premium jobs through the MedPro Experience+ (MPX+) app. MPX+ puts the power in travelers’ hands. Users have 24/7 real-time access to jobs, applications, credentials, assignment details, and more. They’ll get custom job alerts, one-click apply, and can access their timesheets and view details such as base pay, overtime, and meals per diem.
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