Did you know that October is breast cancer awareness month? This time of year, millions of cancer fighters, survivors, their physicians, friends, and family use October to give a voice and face to this sometimes fatal disease. It would not do justice to my oncology nursing background if I didn’t take the opportunity to educate all of you IT Girls about breast cancer.
Facts about breast cancer that many people don’t know…
- Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in Hispanic women, and the 2nd most common cause of cancer death in Black/African American, Caucasian, Asian, and American Indian women.
- According to the American Cancer Society almost 200,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, and 40,000 of those women will loose their battle with it.
- Even though it’s rare, men get breast cancer too. Almost 2000 men in the United States are diagnosed with breast cancer every year and it accounts for about 400 cancer deaths in men per year.
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What increases my risk for breast cancer?
According to MD Anderson Cancer Center, there are multiple factors that can increase a woman’s likelihood of developing breast cancer.
- Age is the most influential factor. Breast cancer is most common in women over 50.
- Women who have never had children, or have had children after the age of 30, started their menstrual cycle before the age of 12, or have gone into menopause after the age of 55 are at an increased risk for developing breast cancer.
- Women with diets high in saturated fats, with post menopausal obesity, or who lead mostly inactive lifestyles are more likely to develop breast cancer.
- If you mother, sister, or daughter has developed breast cancer, your chances of developing it are greater.
- Women who smoke or consume at least 1 alcoholic beverage per day are putting themselves at a higher risk for developing breast cancer.
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How do I get screened for breast cancer?
Screening for breast cancer is typically a collaboration between a woman and her physician, happens on a consistent basis, and is essential in detecting breast cancer early on.
- It is imperative that all women perform their own monthly self breast exams. Changes in the breast noted during these exams help guide physicians on the proper testing and diagnostic procedures needed to correctly diagnosis you. Click here to learn how to do your own self breast exam.
- A clinical breast exam which is a breast exam done by a licensed medical professional should be done once every 2-3 years.
- Mammograms should be done yearly starting at the age of 40. If you have multiple risk factors, or a genetic predisposition, mammograms can be performed at an earlier age.
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What are common symptoms of breast cancer?
It is common to have these symptoms and not have breast cancer, as it is also possible to have breast cancer without any symptoms. This makes it very important to report any of you these conditions listed to your physician immediately.
- Mass or lump in your breast
- Changes in the appearance of your breast. (size, texture, color, etc.)
- Swollen armpit lymph nodes
- Redness, dimpling, scaling, or puckering of the breast tissue
- Abnormal nipple discharge
- Nipple pulling to one side or a change in nipple direction.
If you notice any of these symptoms, get an evaluation by your physician immediately. Breast cancer can only be diagnosed by a licensed medical practitioner. When in doubt, see your Doc.
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How do I get my PINK on?
- Forward this article to all of your friends, family, and loved ones. The best way to raise awareness is educate and inform others.
- Volunteer your time at a cancer hospital, or with a breast cancer foundation like the Susan G. Komen Foundation.
- Race for the Cure…Join thousands of breast cancer survivers, fighters, and their supporters in raising awareness and money that goes towards breast cancer research by participating in your local race for the cure.
- Wear something pink everyday for the entire month of October to show your support. It can be something as small as a pink lapel pin, or as large as rocking a pair of hot pink Christian Louboutin pumps. Whatever you do…Get your PINK on!
