Breast Cancer Awareness
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer. We would like to take a few minutes to provide you with some facts and tips about breast cancer.
Did you know:
- 1 in 8 women in the US will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.
- In 2021, it’s estimated among women in the U.S. there will be 281,550 new cases of invasive breast cancer (This includes new cases of primary breast cancer, but not breast cancer recurrences.)
- While breast cancer can happen to anyone, the risk of getting breast cancer increases with age. Most breast cancers and breast cancer deaths occur in women 50 and older.
- Improvements in early detection and treatment led to a 41% decline in breast cancer deaths in the US from 1989-2018.
While there is no sure way to prevent breast cancer, there are things that you can do you help lower your risk including to quit smoking, staying physically active, and avoiding or limiting alcohol intake.
In addition to making healthy lifestyle changes, it is important to be vigilant about breast cancer detection. If you notice any changes in your breast, such as a new lump, unusual breast tenderness, or any other symptom, consult your doctor. It is also important to receive regular mammograms, as they can help find breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat and before it is big enough to feel or cause symptoms.
For more information on breast cancer, you can visit American Cancer Society or Susan G Komen.
