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How to Beat Breast Cancer Before it Starts
October 2025
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a powerful reminder that early detection saves lives. Approximately 1 in 8 women in the United States — roughly 13% — will develop invasive breast cancer in their lifetime, and breast cancer accounts for nearly 30% of all new cancer diagnoses among women. Thanks to advances in awareness, screening and treatment, the five-year relative survival rate for all stages combined is now 90-92%, and when breast cancer is found while it is still localized, meaning before it has spread, that rate soars to 99%. However, when detection occurs later, at regional or distant stages, survival drops sharply.
At West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital (WCCH), breast health care is more than a service — it’s a continuum of care that encompasses education, screening, diagnostics, treatment, patient support and survivorship. “Our Breast Health Program is designed to give patients the best chance for early detection and positive outcomes,” says Heather LaBauve, RN, OCN, BHCN.
LaBauve is a breast health navigator, one of the most impactful resources WCCH offers women who receive a breast cancer diagnosis. She provides individualized support to patients from diagnosis through treatment. “Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis is difficult enough, but then wading through all the uncertainty, information overload and treatment options is overwhelming,” she says. “We are here to walk alongside each patient, answering questions and providing encouragement through every step of their journey to recovery.”
WCCH’s Fast Track program accelerates this process. “Fear and uncertainty are the first reactions after a suspicious finding in a screening, and waiting for information, appointments and treatment to begin heightens these feelings,” says LaBauve. “We understand the immediacy of our patients’ concerns, and our team works to streamline appointments and paperwork, so the patient isn’t left waiting or wondering where to go or who to turn to next. We work around any obstacles they may encounter and channel their fears into positive action with the full resources of our team of medical specialists.”
From diagnosis to treatment and recovery, WCCH’s Breast Health Program provides a wide range of options and technology, and works closely with leading surgeons and oncologists, creating a seamless continuum of care for patients diagnosed with breast cancer.
“At WCCH, treatment for breast cancer is truly a collaborative effort, which makes a huge difference for our patients,” says general surgeon Dr. Devin Seale, with the Sulphur Surgical Clinic and member of the WCCH medical staff. “We’re proud to be a part of the hospital’s Breast Health Program. It gives patients incredible peace of mind to know their entire treatment team — from the first mammogram through surgery, treatment and recovery — is connected, communicating and working together to ensure the best possible outcome.”
In addition to the breast health navigator and fast track elements, LaBauve highlights the other key components of WCCH’s comprehensive program:
Diagnostics
Mammography remains one of the best tools for identifying breast cancer at an early stage. The American College of Radiology recommends yearly mammograms for women starting at age 40. WCCH’s advanced digital mammography with 3D SmartCurve delivers more accurate results, along with enhanced comfort.
For women who need further evaluation, ultrasound, MRI and minimally invasive biopsies are conveniently available in the hospital.
Treatment
WCCH’s team of specialists provides comprehensive treatment capabilities for breast cancer, including surgery, outpatient chemotherapy, port care and infusion services, ensuring that lifesaving care is conveniently available, close to home.
Genetic Testing
Carriers of the genes linked to breast cancer, BRCA1 and BRCA2, have about an 85 percent chance of developing breast cancer. Genetic testing is one of the most powerful tools available in the battle against breast cancer, and it is available at WCCH. This testing gives individuals the information they need to help make future decisions regarding treatment and proactive care. Determining if genetic testing is appropriate for an individual requires careful thought and a discussion with their physician to weigh the pros and cons.
Pink Crusade Support Group
The WCCH Pink Crusade Support Group offers comfort, connection and encouragement to women facing breast cancer and to survivors continuing their journey. The group meets monthly to provide a safe space to share experiences, learn from others and find strength in community.
“We know breast cancer is a top concern for women, as it should be. But with awareness and advances in early detection and treatment, we are able to give women the power to survive,” adds LaBauve. “And from prevention to treatment, WCCH patients have the confidence of knowing there is an entire team of medical professionals working to protect their breast health. No one here fights this battle alone.”
To learn more, visit wcch.com/services/breast-health.
