Breast Cancer Awareness Month: UTA Professor Dispels Myths and Highlights Latest Research
Table of Contents
October 6, 2025 – As October dawns, bringing with it Breast Cancer Awareness Month, attention turns to a disease impacting hundreds of thousands of Americans annually. The Susan G. Komen Foundation estimates over 317,000 women and 2,800 men will receive a breast cancer diagnosis in the U.S. this year - roughly one new case every two minutes.
But amidst the sobering statistics, advancements in awareness, detection, and understanding are offering hope. At The University of Texas at Arlington, nursing professor Dr. Zhaoli Liu is at the forefront of breast cancer research, recently publishing a study in Geriatric Nursing focused on detection among older women. dr. Liu shares critical insights into the disease, debunking common myths and outlining the latest research findings.
(Image: UTA nursery professor Zhaoli Liu (UTA Photo))
Debunking Common Myths
“Many people think breast cancer only affects women or shows up as a lump,” explains Dr.Liu, “but men can get it, too. And warning signs aren’t always a lump - they can include changes in breast shape, skin, or nipples.” She emphasizes that a family history isn’t always a prerequisite, and young women are also at risk.”screening and follow-up care are essential,” she stresses, adding that treatment doesn’t automatically mean mastectomy; options vary depending on the individual case.
Improved Awareness & Detection
Notable strides have been made in breast cancer awareness and detection over the past decade.Dr. Liu points to increased public education,improved screening protocols,and the advent of advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography. “Genetic testing and personalized risk assessments also help identify high-risk individuals earlier, leading to earlier diagnoses and better outcomes.”
The Power of Lifestyle: Diet & Exercise
the role of lifestyle in mitigating breast cancer risk is gaining increasing recognition. Dr. Liu highlights compelling evidence linking diet and exercise to both prevention and improved outcomes.
“Engaging in regular physical activity is associated with a 1
