‘It is so great to be back’: Nancy Alvarez returns to work after early-stage breast cancer diagnosis

ORLANDO, Fla. — Eyewitness News This Morning’s Nancy Alvarez returned to the anchor desk on Monday after being diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer.

“It is so great to be back with you guys,” she said. “I missed you so much.”

Last month, Alvarez shared that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

READ: Nancy Alvarez reveals early stage breast cancer diagnosis, shares importance of making annual mammogram appointment

“During my annual mammogram a few weeks ago, a very small tumor was found in my right breast,” Alvarez said. “It turned out to be cancer. It’s stage one, and there is no indication whatsoever that it has spread. This is curable, and it’s manageable because I had my mammogram on schedule.”

During her announcement, she shared the importance of scheduling a mammogram.

“I am asking you to act. If you put off getting a mammogram because of the pandemic, or because you’re busy, or because you’re uninsured, please, make that appointment today. There are resources out there to help you,” she said.

READ: Nancy Alvarez’s cancer fight seen as call to action for breast cancer prevention

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Each year in the United States, about 250,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women and about 2,300 in men, the CDC reported.

READ: Where free or reduced cost mammograms are available in Central Florida

Here are some warning signs of breast cancer, according to the CDC:

• New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit).
• Thickening or swelling of part of the breast.
• Irritation or dimpling of breast skin.
• Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast.
• Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area.
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood.
• Any change in the size or the shape of the breast.
• Pain in any area of the breast.

To find out where you can get a free mammogram in Florida, click here.

READ: 5 facts about genetics testing for breast cancer

WFTV's Nancy Alvarez shares early stage breast cancer diagnosis, has important message for viewers (Nancy Alvarez)

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