Breast Awareness in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Breast cancer can cause changes in your body and in how you feel. Knowing what is normal for you, and what might be a concern, is an important part of protecting your health in Grand Rapids.

What Are Breast Cancer Signs and Symptoms?

Changes caused by breast cancer are called signs or symptoms.

Anyone can get breast cancer – including men – although it is less common in men than in women. People of all genders, including trans and nonbinary people, can develop breast cancer.

Common breast cancer symptoms include:

  • A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm (armpit)
  • Changes in the skin of the breast, such as dimpling, puckering, or redness
  • Nipple changes – turning inward (inverting) when it used to point outward
  • Nipple discharge that is unusual for you (especially if bloody or clear and coming from one side)
  • An area that feels different from the rest of the breast
  • Unusual, persistent pain in the breast or armpit

If you notice any of these changes, contact a doctor in Grand Rapids as soon as possible. Many breast changes are not cancer, but it is always safest to get them checked.

Why Breast Awareness Matters in Grand Rapids

Know What’s Normal for Your Body

Every person’s body is different. Being familiar with the usual look and feel of your breasts or chest helps you notice changes early.

In this information, “breast” includes breasts or chests and is relevant for all people. Use the language that feels right for you.

Because the risk of breast cancer increases with age, breast awareness becomes especially important as you get older.

Local Context: Seasons and Breast Health

Grand Rapids has cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. Seasonal changes can affect your body:

  • In winter, dry skin and extra layers of clothing may make it harder to notice subtle changes.
  • In summer, heat and sweat can cause temporary irritation or rashes.

Regularly checking your breasts throughout the year helps you tell the difference between seasonal skin issues and changes that need medical attention.

How to Check Your Own Breasts

There is no single “right” way to check your breasts. The best method is the one you will actually do regularly.

Find a Routine That Works for You

You might find it easiest to check your breasts:

  • In the shower or bath
  • Lying in bed
  • While getting dressed
  • In front of a mirror

Try to check your breasts at around the same time each month. If you menstruate, many people find it easiest a few days after their period ends, when breasts are less tender or swollen.

Step-by-Step Breast Self-Awareness

Use these tips to get to know your breasts and chest:

1. Look in the Mirror

Stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides, then raised above your head, and then with your hands on your hips:

  • Look at the size, shape, and outline of your breasts
  • Check the skin for dimpling, puckering, redness, or rash
  • Look at your nipples for changes in direction, shape, or discharge

2. Feel Your Breasts and Surrounding Areas

Use the pads of your fingers to feel:

  • From your collarbone down to under your breasts or chest
  • From the middle of your chest over to your armpit on each side
  • Deep in the tissue as well as near the surface

Use small circular motions, moving in a pattern (up and down, or in circles) so you cover the whole area. Check both sides the same way.

Remember to include:

  • The entire breast or chest area
  • The armpit (underarm)
  • The area above and below the breast

If you feel a new lump, thickened area, or something that just feels “different” or unusual for you, contact a healthcare provider.

When Changes Are Not Breast Cancer

Many breast changes are caused by:

  • Hormonal shifts
  • Cysts (fluid-filled sacs)
  • Infections or inflammation
  • Benign (non-cancerous) growths

However, only a healthcare professional can tell what is causing the change. If you notice something new or worrying, it is important to:

  • See your primary care doctor or gynecologist
  • Ask for a referral to a breast clinic or imaging center if needed

In Grand Rapids, you can talk to providers at:

  • Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health)
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
  • University of Michigan Health–West (Metro Health)
  • Mercy Health locations in the metro area

Breast Screening (Mammograms) in Grand Rapids

Some people have a regular test for breast cancer called a breast screen, or mammogram.

What Is a Mammogram?

A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray of the breast that can find cancers that are too small to see or feel. This is often called early detection.

Early detection matters because:

  • Treatment is more likely to work when breast cancer is found early
  • There may be more treatment options
  • The chance of surviving breast cancer is higher when it is diagnosed at an early stage

Most people who have a mammogram do not have breast cancer.

Who Should Get Breast Screening?

General guidelines (always confirm with your doctor):

  • If you are aged 50–74, you typically need a screening mammogram every 2 years if you are at average risk.
  • If you are 40–49 or over 75, or have a family history of breast cancer, talk with your doctor in Grand Rapids about when to start and how often to screen.
  • Trans and gender-diverse people may still need breast cancer screening depending on their anatomy, hormone use, and personal risk. Discuss your situation with a knowledgeable provider.

Your doctor can help you decide:

  • Whether you need regular breast screening
  • When to start
  • Which type of imaging (mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI) is best for you

Where to Get a Mammogram in Grand Rapids

You can access breast screening and diagnostic imaging at:

  • Corewell Health (Spectrum Health) Breast Care Centers
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids imaging and women’s health centers
  • University of Michigan Health–West (Metro Health) breast imaging services
  • Mercy Health and affiliated imaging centers
  • Independent radiology centers in the Grand Rapids metro area

If you do not have insurance or are worried about cost, contact:

  • Kent County Health Department – they can provide information on low-cost or free mammogram programs
  • Grand Rapids Public Health resources and local community clinics

Breast Awareness for Men and Gender-Diverse People

While breast cancer is less common in men, it does occur. Men and people with smaller amounts of breast tissue should still watch for:

  • A lump or swelling in the breast or underarm
  • Nipple changes, including inversion or discharge
  • Skin changes on the chest, such as dimpling or redness
  • Persistent chest or nipple pain that is unusual for you

Trans and gender-diverse people may have unique screening needs depending on:

  • Past chest surgery (such as top surgery)
  • Hormone therapy
  • Family history of breast or ovarian cancer

If you are trans or nonbinary in Grand Rapids, ask your provider for gender-affirming breast cancer screening recommendations that match your body and risk factors.

Local Support and Information in Grand Rapids

If you are worried about breast changes, or have questions about breast cancer or breast screening, you can:

  • Contact your Grand Rapids primary care provider or OB/GYN
  • Reach out to breast health programs at:
    • Corewell Health (Spectrum Health)
    • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
    • University of Michigan Health–West (Metro Health)
    • Mercy Health

For public health information and local resources:

  • Kent County Health Department – breast cancer screening programs, community clinics, and education
  • Grand Rapids Public Health – local health initiatives and referrals

National resources include:

  • American Cancer Society – information on breast cancer and screening
  • Susan G. Komen – education, support, and financial assistance programs
  • Breastcancer.org – detailed, patient-friendly information

Key Points to Remember

  • Breast cancer can cause changes in your body and how you feel – these are called signs or symptoms.
  • Anyone can get breast cancer, including men and gender-diverse people, though it is more common in women.
  • It is important for everyone in Grand Rapids to be aware of breast cancer signs and symptoms.
  • Be familiar with the look and feel of your breasts or chest so you know what is normal for you.
  • Many breast changes are not cancer, but you should still see a doctor if you notice something unusual.
  • Mammograms can find breast cancers that are too small to see or feel, making treatment more effective.
  • Talk with a Grand Rapids healthcare provider about when you should start breast screening and how often you should be screened.

If you notice any breast changes you are worried about, do not wait—make an appointment with a local doctor or clinic in Grand Rapids as soon as possible. Early checking and early care can save lives.