Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Just in case you have not known, October is the Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Some hear about Breast cancer and its devastating implications, yet many still do not know who it affects or its prevention methods.
Breast cancer is considered as one of the most common types of cancer diagnosed amongst women and men.
Yes, MEN, too.
Statistics reveal that 1 in 8 women is most likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer with women being at a higher risk, while the statistics for men are quite low. Therefore, is seems fitting to set an entire month dedicated to raising awareness about the disease. There are various ways in which we can all participate. Each one of us men and women have our own reasons to support the cause, such as having lost a loved one to breast cancer; having had the experience of battling it ourselves; knowing someone who has suffered from breast cancer; or just wanting to spread awareness.
In order for us to honour Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is important to note that education is key, be it educating oneself or educating others on the facts pertaining to breast cancer. Having knowledge of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and making sure our friends also know about them will help us in the long run. The warning signs include tenderness around or on the nipples, a lump in the breast, enlargement of pores or change of skin texture on the breast, or discoloured nipple discharge. We should never ignore healthy lifestyle habits, which aid breast cancer prevention such as limiting alcohol intake, quitting smoking, eating fruits and vegetables as well as exercising.
Many people believe that breast cancer is purely hereditary. However, 85% of people diagnosed are women with no family history of breast cancer. Some family links may increase the chances of breast cancer through mutations. Individuals with family history of breast cancer family should exercise caution and undergo genetic tests. All women should get preventative screening for breast cancer as they age, even if there is no family history.
October is the month where we see the colour pink the most. From pink accessories, clothing, hairstyles, décor, lipstick or fingernails, pink is used in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Not just any colour, the usage of pink helps to spread awareness and serve as a reminder to the public to support the cause. Everyone is encouraged to wear pink to show support and solidarity with breast cancer patients and survivors. If you own a car, tie a pink ribbon on your windshield. You can also wear the signature pink ribbon pinned to your chest in support of breast cancer awareness.
There are a number of breast cancer awareness fundraising activities hosted by various organisations or hospitals, which provide us with opportunities to contribute to local breast cancer initiatives. Making donations to the cause goes a long way in supporting the breast cancer awareness fundraiser.
As social media is one of the fastest ways to spread awareness, you are therefore encouraged to post on social media, start a discussion and spread the word around by posting a picture of you in a pink outfit, wearing a Breast Cancer Awareness ribbon, with an informative caption to educate your followers on some facts regarding breast cancer.
To conclude on the Breast Cancer Awareness Month, learn your risk factors and take action to mitigate them by getting screened, consulting a doctor and making healthy lifestyle choices.