It is estimated that breast cancer claims more than 40,000 lives per year. Yet, the American Cancer Society believes that early detection tests for breast cancer save thousands of lives per year. This is why National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, held in October, is about more than just wearing pink. This month is about raising awareness and educating people on the importance of early detection by encouraging women to get mammograms, asking their healthcare providers for clinical breast exams, and monitoring changes in their breasts. Breast Cancer Awareness Month also garners support for research and programs aimed at eradicating breast cancer.
Breast cancer occurs due to the formation of malignant or benign tumors typically starting in the ducts and lobules of the breasts, and rarely in the breast tissue of men. An enormous risk for women with breast cancer is that a malignant growth can spread to nearby tissue. During this process, cells can travel into other parts of the body through the blood stream or the lymphatic system. Known as metastasis, this process often causes tumors in the lungs, bones, liver, and brain. Even non-invasive forms of breast cancer can lead to invasive cancer or an increased risk of invasive forms. As breast cancer advances through multiple stages, the chances of survival decrease, which makes early detection screenings essential.
Healthy living is the most important factor in the prevention of breast cancer. Engaging in regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight lowers the risk of breast cancer. Women should incorporate fruits and vegetables, calcium-rich foods, lean protein, whole grains, and a multivitamin that includes folate into their diet. It is also important to limit alcohol and refrain from smoking cigarettes. Improving emotional health by finding ways to lower stress can help prevent breast cancer as well.
Detection screenings can discover the disease in its early stages, improving the patient's prognosis. According to the American Cancer Society, it is recommended that women age 40 and over receive yearly mammograms and clinical breast exams. These two screening tools are most effective when paired together. If you or a loved one has risk factors, such as a family history of breast cancer, you should talk to a doctor about mammograms and other forms of early detection like breast MRIs, regardless of age.
Breast self-awareness also increases the odds of early detection. It is important to take note and contact a doctor if you find lumps or hard knots in the breasts, swelling, darkening, redness, or warmth, change in breast size or shape, rashes on the nipples that are sore, scaly, and itchy, a pulling-in of the nipple, the sudden onset of nipple discharge, or persistent pain in one area. Breast self-examination should not be used in lieu of screenings but as a way to become familiar with your own breasts to detect changes.
Being informed on the subject of breast cancer can also be beneficial. Susan G. Komen for the Cure, The American Cancer Society, and The National Cancer Institute are all valuable resources for obtaining more information. Each of these Web sites offer tools for locating doctors and treatment centers. If you or a loved one experiences any of the signs of breast cancer, it is important to request a second look from a healthcare provider or specialist.
By raising awareness about breast cancer, detection screenings, and research through Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we can work towards eliminating the disease. If you or a loved one is coping with the daily stresses, challenges, physical and emotional effects of cancer, CareFocus Companion Services can help. If you feel that receiving care in your home is right for you or your loved one, and would like to learn about our Companion Care Services, please visit us online or call your local CareFocus Companion office to learn more.
This information is not meant as a substitute for professional medical or nutritional advice and consultation. When differences exist between the information here and information given to you by your healthcare provider(s), you should follow the advice of your healthcare provider(s). Any additional information or clarification needed should be sought from the Physician, Practitioner, Speech Pathologist, or Nutritionist who is familiar with the individual’s health and medical conditions.