Have you noticed that there is a lot pink around? 5 Hour energy is going pink, Ford Motor company is pink, even NCIS is wearing pink. From the NFL to MLB and NHL, uniforms, wrist bands, shoe laces, cleats, ribbons, caps, jackets… if it’s worn on the field or the ice there’s a good chance there will be some pink in there. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is an annual campaign to increase awareness of the disease. While most people are aware of breast cancer, many forget to take the steps to have a plan to detect the disease in its early stages and encourage others to do the same. What is breast cancer? Breast cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the breast. The damaged cells can invade surrounding tissue, but with early detection and treatment most people continue a normal life. Facts about Breast Cancer in the United States · One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. · Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. · Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among women. · Each year it is estimated that over 220,000 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer and more than 40,000 will die. · Although breast cancer in men is rare, an estimated 2,150 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer and approximately 410 will die each year Every person should know the symptoms and signs of breast cancer, and any time an abnormality is discovered, it should be investigated by a healthcare professional. Most people who have breast cancer symptoms and signs will initially notice only one or two, and the presence of these symptoms and signs do not automatically mean that you have breast cancer. By performing monthly breast self-exams, you will be able to more easily identify any changes in your breast. Be sure to talk to your healthcare professional if you notice anything unusual. If I have some symptoms, is it likely to be cancer? Most often, these symptoms are not due to cancer, but any breast cancer symptom you notice should be investigated as soon as it is discovered. If you have any of these symptoms, you should tell your healthcare provider so that the problem can be diagnosed and treated If I have no symptoms, should I assume I do not have cancer? Although there’s no need to worry, regular screenings are always important. Your doctor can check for breast cancer before you have any noticeable symptoms. During your office visit, your doctor will ask about your personal and family medical history and perform a physical examination. In addition, your doctor may order one or more imaging tests, such as a mammogram. For more information go to nationalbreastcancer.org |
Categories
All
Archives
December 2017
AuthorThe Personal Counselors of Berkeley College share their VOICES for this blog. We invite you to share your voice too! |
This blog is for you!
Berkeley students are invited to visit this blog often to receive encouragement and support from our Personal Counselors, and each other!