Breast Cancer Awareness Month

While it may seem like every other month is dedicated to one health concern or another, October’s is a pressing one, it’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast Cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States. Each year in the United States, about 220,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women and about 2,000 in men.

Approximately 1 in 8 American women will develop breast cancer at some point in her life. That’s not odds you want to mess with.

Good News About Breast Cancer Trends
In recent years, there has been a gradual reduction in female breast cancer incidence rates among women aged 50 and older. Death rates from breast cancer have been declining since 1990, in part due to better screening and early detection, increased awareness, and treatment options.

Can I Rely On Breast Self-Exams Alone?
Mammography can detect tumors before they can be felt, so early screening is key. It’s also important to know what your normal is. Which is why it’s important to do self-exams monthly so you know how your breasts look and feel and can report any changes to your healthcare provider.

You Have Detected a Lump During a Self-Exam, Now What?
Don’t panic — 8 out of 10 lumps are not cancerous.
Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider.

Take the Quiz
Take this quick quiz to test your knowledge so you and your family can familiarize proper preventative care and treatment.