BREAST CANCER AWARENESS

THE FACTS

Breast cancer is cancer that forms in the cells of the breasts, usually in the milk ducts. After skin cancer, it is the most common cancer among women in the US. It can also occur in men, but is much more common for women.

The main risk factors for breast cancer are age (over 50) and a close family history (mother, daughter, sister) of breast cancer. One in 200 women has the genes that increase risk for breast cancer (BRCA1 and BRCA2).  Most women who are diagnosed with breast cancer have no known genetic risk.

Risk is also higher for those who have had a benign (non-cancerous) lump or a personal history of breast/ovarian cancer. Greater lifetime exposure to certain hormones can also increase risk, and African Americans are more likely to have breast cancer than Caucasians. A diet high in fat and alcohol may also increase risk. 

Because early breast cancer often has no symptoms, regular screenings are important for detection and early treatment, which is most likely to have optimal outcomes.

THE GOOD NEWS

This is national breast cancer awareness month, and awareness has already come a long way in recent years.  Public support and research funding have helped improve breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. The survivor rate has increased and the number of deaths from breast cancer is going down. This is because more people are taking steps to detect it early, there are new treatments, and doctors understand the disease better.

BE PROACTIVE

Create an Early Detection Plan (EDP).  An EDP reminds you to perform routine breast self-exams and to schedule clinical breast exams and mammograms, depending on your age and health history. You can set up an EDP for your computer calendar, your smartphone, or on a printable document at: http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/nbcf-programs/breast-cancer-edp

Conduct Self Exams.  Adult women of all ages should conduct a monthly breast self exam (BSE) at the same time each month.  Find out how at: http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-self-exam

Schedule a Mammogram.  Most doctors recommend that women over 40 get a mammogram every year. Talk with your family doctor about scheduling one, if you are overdue.  You can also visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website to find a low cost screening center near you: http://apps.nccd.cdc.gov/dcpc_Programs/default.aspx?NPID=1

TAKE ACTION FOR THE CAUSE

Join a Race. There are many events that happen this month, and all year round, in support of breast cancer.  Participating in a walk or a race is a great motivator for your own physical activity, and it also helps to support breast cancer research.  The Susan G. Komen “Race for the Cure” is perhaps the most well known.  You can find a race anywhere in the country by visiting:  http://apps.komen.org/raceforthecure/?itc=homeaction:1 

Organize an Event. The National Breast Cancer Foundation can help you to arrange a fundraiser. These events help to fund mammograms for people who cannot afford them.  Learn more at: http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-fundraising

BEEN TOUCHED BY IT ALREADY?

Share Resources. “Beyond The Shock” is a free, online guide for women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, and their loved ones.http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/nbcf-programs/beyond-the-shock

Find a Support Group. Support groups are groups of people in similar life situation who meet in person, by phone, or online to exchange ideas and handle difficult issues.  The American Cancer Society’s “Reach for Recovery” program connects trained breast cancer survivors with people who are at risk, newly diagnosed, or undergoing treatment. Get connected at: http://www.cancer.org/treatment/supportprogramsservices/reach-to-recovery. You can also find an online discussion board at: http://www.bcsupport.org/

Hear Inspiring Stories. For the month of October, there is a new video each day, highlighting stories from the people whose lives are an example of how to make a difference.  Visit “31 Days of Impact” all month long at: http://ww5.komen.org/impact.html