1.     Awareness. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women, with 1 in 8 women developing breast cancer at some point in their lives. Breast cancer awareness month is an opportunity to spread valuable information about breast cancer, including its prevention,  early detection methods, and how individuals can provide support for research.

2.     Prevention. There is no way to prevent breast cancer, but there are ways to lower your risk, such as maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and limiting alcohol consumption. For people who know they are genetically more likely to develop breast cancer, preventative surgery and some medications can help to lower the risk.

3.     Early Detection. Because there is no way to prevent breast cancer, early detection is the key to identifying breast cancer before it spreads. Clinical exams, mammograms, and ultrasounds are all effective ways to diagnose breast cancer with the help of a physician. A breast self-examination once a month is also recommended to establish early detection for breast cancer. For instructions on how to perform a breast self-examination, visit https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-self-exam.

4.     Support. There are many ways you can provide support for breast cancer research. Many organizations accept donations, including the National Breast Cancer Foundation, and there are other organizations you can get involved with to help spread awareness.

 

 

Sources: 

“Breast Cancer Risk and Prevention.” American Cancer Society. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/risk-and-prevention.html, 8 October 2021.

“Breast Self-Exam.” National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-sel-exam, 8 October 2021.

“Why is Breast Cancer Awareness so Important?” Fox Chase Cancer Center. Temple Health, https://www.foxchase.orgblog/why-breast-cancer-awareness-so-important, 3 October 2019, accessed 8 October 2021.