October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

                                                     

 As mothers, sisters, daughters, and friends, October is the time of year when women are busier than ever. The kids are backto school and sports, the warm clothes need to be taken out, the yard is full of leaves, and the holidays are just around the corner! This October slow down and take a closer look at your community. Most likely there is quite a bit of pink around. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM)! Since 1985, this month has been dedicated to enhancing breast cancer awareness and demolishing the stigma which surrounds it. 

 

When National Breast Cancer Awareness Month began, its initial goal was to promote the mammography for all women 40 years of age and older. Even today the mammography is recognized as the most effective weapon in the fight against breast cancer. Over the yeas, NBCAM has made many strides in the fight against breast cancer. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is no longer restricted by the U.S. borders.   October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) internationally. This month has grown significantly with the support of hundreds of charities and organizations which fight against breast cancer. BCAM also seeks to address the needs of those women, families, and friends affected by breast cancer.   

 

Breast Cancer, like any cancer, is an abnormality found in the cells which then divides uncontrollably or without order. The cells can divide so much that they may form a tumor which could be found to be benign or malignant. In breast cancer, this abnormal division of cells can be found in the breast tissue, usually in the ducts (tubes that carry milk to the nipple) and lobules (glands that make milk). The occurrence of breast cancer can cause the following symptoms: 1) single lumps, 2) changes in breast shape, 3) changes in skin texture or color, 4) discharge from the nipple, 5) changes in the nipple shape, or 6) breast sore that don’t heal.

 

In effort to increase early diagnosis, it is also important that you are aware of Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC). While this form of breast cancer is rare, it is very aggressive. IBC does not present itself like other breast cancers. Instead of a distinct lump, IBC causes the breast to appear red or pink and swollen. These symptoms develop quickly over the time period of a few weeks.    

            Since the 1940s, the incidence of breast cancer in U.S. women has been on the rise.  In the year 2007, it is estimated that there were 1.3 million new breast cases worldwide. Breast cancer is most common cancer in women, aside from skin cancer. It has no boundaries and can happen to anyone. While Caucasian women over 40 are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer, African American and Hispanic women are found to have a greater rate of late stage diagnosis and therefore, a higher mortality rate. Today, breast cancer is the 2^nd leading cause of cancer deaths among all American women.   

 

            The greatest risks for being diagnosed with breast cancer are simply being a woman and getting older. A familial or personal history of breast cancer, a menstrual period before the age of 12, or menopause after the age of 50 can also be genetic risk factors. While women do not have much control over these factors, there are risks that can be lowered or even eliminated. Controllable risk factors include drinking one or more alcoholic beverages a day, being overweight, and not getting enough sleep each night. Other ways to lower your risk of breast cancer include eating a diet high in fiber, doing exercise on a daily basis, consuming fresh fruits and vegetables, limiting the consumption of saturated fats, and not smoking, or quitting today if you do smoke! 

 

            Although incidences of breast cancer have been on the rise, the mortality rate continues to decrease. What is responsible for decreasing the amount of breast cancer deaths? In recent years, more and more women have been completing their annual screenings, better known as the mammography. The mammography is an x-ray of the breasts which can detect cancer during its early stages. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the greater chance of survival. The mammography only takes 15 minutes and although it may be a little uncomfortable, it is not painful. In order to have the most pleasant experience, schedule your appointment at least a week after your menstrual period and avoid caffeine on the day of your mammogram.

 

            This October, take the time to recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month in your community, but more importantly, take the time to take care of yourself. Too many times women put the needs of their families and friends first and forget about themselves. Make the commitment to your family and friends and celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month by scheduling your mammogram today! Your family and friends want you around for years to come! 

 

            Do you need to an appointment with the doctor?

²       Call SJFMC at 609-567-0200

 

Uninsured and need a mammogram? 

²        Call NJCEED at 1-800-328-3838 or

²        Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at (888) 842-6355