October is an amazing month in its own right with celebrations like Halloween, National Caramel month and National Roller-Skating month. It is a time to enjoy the changing colors, pumpkin spice and bon fires with family and friends. We here at Apollo Virtual Health also want you to know that October is a great time of recognition for Breast Cancer Awareness. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women, following skin cancer. It is estimated that 43,780 people in the United States will die from breast cancer in 2022.
The two biggest risk factors for breast cancer are being a woman and aging. Those conditions can’t be changed, but you have some control over other things like maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, not smoking or drinking alcohol in moderation.
What can you do to find breast cancer early?
Mammograms are an important tool in the fight against breast cancer. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that most women who are at average risk and are 50 to 74 years old get one every 2 years. But it’s always best to speak with your doctor about what exactly constitutes appropriate screening times for you based off personal risk factors and family history as well.
Why perform self-exams?
Self-exams are important to help you understand the normal look and feel of your breasts, it is a good idea to do breast self-exams from time to time. If there’s anything different about how they are functioning or what kind of sensation occurs when pressing on them then discuss these changes with your doctor right away so you can identify any potential problems before things become worse!
There are several symptoms that you can look for when performing self-examinations at home:
- New lump in the breast or armpit
- Irritation or dimpling of the breast skin
- Pulling in of the nipple
- Pain in the breast
- Any change in the size or shape of the breast
Show your support with Pink!
In 1990, a pink ribbon became the symbol of breast cancer awareness and fight against this deadly disease. The color is used all around world today not only for its sharp reminder that we need to be more aware but also because it speaks volumes across languages, cultures or countries- bringing emphasis where needed most! Charlotte Haley was a grassroots activist and breast cancer survivor that worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the lack of federal funding for prevention. She sent out thousands of cards with peach ribbons attached, which eventually struck up an emotional chord in so many people around America – when at the end of 1990, the Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Foundation started incorporating pink into their cause by handing out headset visors during Race for The Cure races across country as well as distributing flyers promoting “Pink Ribbon Events”. This event helped popularize not only what symbolized hope but also gave inspiration from one person’s struggle against all odds and became one of the most successful fundraising campaigns. This event has been so successful that it not only increased research but helped find cures too; we’ve come this far because Charlotte put faith into what she believed would make difference: getting people talking candidly among friends & family members while raising money together.
The topic of Breast cancer awareness is one that is near and dear to many people around the world. Knowledge and screenings are the best way to help the spread of this disease. Don’t be afraid to talk openly and honestly with your friends, family, and health care provider to ensure you are taking the best care of you!
