We all know that October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Pink ribbons are everywhere, and all the huge organizations are touting the successes of the Susan G. Komen Foundation and urging people to donate. The hype surrounding October and Breast Cancer Awareness is in full swing, and we couldn’t be happier. Breast Cancer Awareness month reminds us that there are lovely and important women in our life and that breast cancer is a very real disease plaguing women.
The American Cancer Society estimates that around 40,000 women will die from breast cancer this year. It is the second leading cancer causing death among women. Breast cancer begins with cells of the breast that form tumors, and depending on the stage of breast cancer may metastasize, or spread to other surrounding areas of the body. There is hope. There are over 2 million breast cancer survivors in the United States, and while every month is their month, October is special as it is dedicated to these fearless warriors.
Physicians and gynecologists urge women to take preventative measures to ensure that they are cancer free, or catch this diagnosis in the early stages to ensure a higher survival rate. Schedule your mammogram once a year to make sure your breasts are free from tumors. The importance of self-examinations at home is important too. Check your breasts for any suspicious lumps or bumps, and if you feel something abnormal, schedule an appointment with your physician right away. You are the best defense against breast cancer as you know your own body and what is natural.
While there are some risk factors we can’t change, such as gender or age, there are things you can do to maintain control of your body and lessen your risk of a breast cancer diagnosis. It is important if you have a history of breast cancer in your family to go and get checked out. Your chances of breast cancer go up tremendously if it runs in your family. Also, maintaining a good diet and active lifestyle are the best defense against breast cancer. Some studies show that overconsumption of alcohol may lead to breast cancer as well.
If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, there is hope. The survival rate for breast cancer that is diagnosed in the early stages is very high, and with the innovations in medicine and treatments remission is a highly attainable goal. The support system for women with breast cancer is enormous, and finding an organization and people to reach out to and speak with can help you deal with your breast cancer diagnosis in a positive way.
We can’t always prevent breast cancer, but we can show the ladies in our lives we love that we are there for them every step of the way. Breast cancer awareness runs and walks are everywhere. Find one in your area and grab some friends and family to show your support. Many of the family of those who have lost their battle with breast cancer still walk to show that the support never ends.
It’s time to put your pink ribbons on and do all you can to support the fight to end breast cancer and promote awareness.