Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to increase awareness about breast cancer, the second most common cancer among women in the United States. The month-long campaign is intended to raise awareness about the disease, its risk factors, and the importance of early detection and access to timely, high-quality care. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and how you can get involved.
Breast Cancer: A Global Problem
Breast cancer is a global problem that affects millions of women worldwide. In 2020, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 685,000 deaths globally. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, accounting for 16% of all female cancers in 2012. The risk of breast cancer increases with age, and about 83% of breast cancer diagnoses each year are among women aged 50 or older.
More Than Just Pink Ribbons
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is more than just pink ribbons. It is a time to take action and make a difference. While awareness is important, it is not enough. This October, get involved. Get screened. Make a donation. Take action. Make this BCAM about more than awareness.
Breast Cancer Prevention
Breast cancer prevention starts with healthy habits. Research shows that lifestyle changes can decrease the risk of breast cancer, even in women at high risk. Here are some steps you can take to help prevent breast cancer:
– Maintain a healthy weight
– Be physically active
– Choose not to drink alcohol, or drink alcohol in moderation
– Breastfeed your children, if possible
– If you have a family history of breast cancer or inherited changes in your BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, talk to your doctor about other ways to lower your risk
Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
A breast cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. It can affect women and their husbands, who both tend to experience several psychological distresses such as depression. Breast cancer treatment comes with sexual and fertility concerns, including diminished desire for sexual intercourse and fear of infertility. However, studies indicate that when people are diagnosed with breast cancer, they gain personal strength out of their experiences and become more resilient.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month Campaigns
Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaigns can help your organization implement evidence-based practices when communicating about breast cancer. There are numerous events and charities you can donate your time or money to in the fight against breast cancer. Tackling breast cancer requires an exorbitant amount of time and funds – if you have extra of either, you can become an incredible weapon against breast cancer! Whether you volunteer or donate money, know your efforts are appreciated and useful.
Conclusion
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about breast cancer, its risk factors, and the importance of early detection and access to timely, high-quality care. It is a time to take action and make a difference. While awareness is important, it is not enough. This October, get involved. Get screened. Make a donation. Take action. Make this BCAM about more than awareness.