Breast Cancer Awareness
As October ushers in the crisp autumn air, it also heralds a month dedicated to a crucial cause: Breast Cancer Awareness. This annual campaign serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of education, early detection and support in the fight against breast cancer. With that in mind, we’ll explore the prevalence of breast cancer, discuss prevention strategies and highlight the significance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The Scope: Breast Cancer Prevalence
In the United States, breast cancer ranks as the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women, second only to various skin cancers. The impact of this disease is substantial, with breast cancer accounting for roughly one-third of all new cancer diagnoses in women annually. In 2024, medical experts project that invasive breast cancer will affect approximately 310,720 women and 2,800 men across the nation.
While these figures underscore the widespread nature of breast cancer and the critical need for awareness and proactive health measures, it’s important to note that breast cancer doesn’t discriminate. It spares no one, affecting people of all ages, ethnicities and backgrounds. However, certain factors can increase risk, including age, family history and mutations in specific genes, such as the tumor suppressors BRCA1 and BRCA2, which repair DNA and keep other genes healthy.
Thanks to advancements in early detection and treatment, survival rates for breast cancer have improved significantly over the past few decades. The five-year relative survival rate for women with non-metastatic invasive breast cancer is 90%, and if the cancer is localized in the breast, this rate increases to 99%. These encouraging figures really drive home the importance of early detection and prompt treatment, underscoring why awareness campaigns and regular screenings play such a crucial role in combating this disease.
The First Line of Defense: Prevention and Early Detection
In the fight against breast cancer, understanding personal risk factors and making healthy lifestyle choices are crucial. These proactive steps can not only potentially lower cancer risk but also aid in detecting the disease in its early, most treatable stages. By taking control of breast health, individuals can empower themselves against this widespread condition.
For women, this includes regular screenings, which are crucial for early detection.
Mammograms, clinical breast exams and self-examinations all play important roles in identifying potential issues before they become more serious. The American Cancer Society recommends that women between 40 and 44 should have the option to begin annual mammogram screenings if they choose, and yearly mammograms for women between 45 and 54 years old are advised. Once women reach 55 and older, they can either switch to biennial (every two years) mammograms or continue with annual screenings based on their preference and their doctor’s advice.
In addition to screenings, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce your risk. This includes:
- Staying physically active
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Avoiding smoking
- Eating a balanced, nutritious diet
It’s also vital to be aware of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer. While not all lumps are cancerous, any changes in breast tissue, skin or nipple appearance should be promptly discussed with a healthcare provider.
A Time for Action: Breast Cancer Awareness Month
The efforts of Breast Cancer Awareness Month have made a significant impact over the years. In fact, increased awareness has led to more women getting regular screenings, resulting in earlier detection and improved survival rates. Funds raised during this time have fueled groundbreaking research, leading to advancements in treatment options and improved quality of life for those battling the disease.
Moreover, the campaign has helped reduce the stigma surrounding breast cancer, encouraging open conversations and creating a supportive community for patients and survivors.
As we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month, there are numerous ways you can contribute to this important cause:
- Educate yourself and others about breast health and the importance of regular screenings.
- Participate in local awareness events, such as walks or fundraisers.
- Donate to reputable breast cancer research organizations.
- Volunteer your time at local cancer support centers or hospitals.
- Share factual information and support resources on social media.
- Encourage the women in your life to schedule their mammograms and perform regular self-exams.
A Powerful Reminder
Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as a powerful reminder that we all have a role to play in the fight against this disease. Whether it’s taking charge of your own health through regular screenings, supporting a friend or family member affected by breast cancer or contributing to awareness and research efforts, every action counts.
When you see pink ribbons this month, remember that awareness is just the beginning. It’s the actions we take throughout October and beyond that truly make a difference. Together, we can work towards a future where breast cancer is no longer a life-threatening disease but a treatable condition with consistently positive outcomes.
So embrace this October as an opportunity to learn, support and act. Your involvement could save a life — perhaps even your own.
For more information about breast cancer and overall health, including hearing testimonials from real-life survivors, visit these additional resources:
References:
cancer.org (screening guidelines) breastcancer.org (facts and statistics) cancer.org (understanding survival rates)
Wise & Well Webinar
Holiday Presence: Increasing Connection while Prioritizing Self-Care
Balancing work, health, relationships, and family during the holiday season can be quite challenging. How we approach and prioritize self-care significantly influences our sense of presence, fulfillment, and connection to what matters most in our lives. Engaging in acts of self-care enhances our ability to cope with difficult situations and reduces the risk of burnout, thereby strengthening relationships with loved ones and colleagues. In this webinar, we will share strategies to make self-care an intentional practice.
Key Takeaways:
- The importance of self-care
- How to practice acts of self-care
- How self-care can positively impact those around you
- The importance of self-care during the holiday season
Monthly Moves
Horse Stance
The equine posture is a fundamental exercise in numerous Asian martial disciplines, particularly prevalent in kung-fu training. When executed correctly, this stance can contribute to strength development in both the lower and upper body.
This isometric position involves widening your legs to the sides and lowering your body into a squat, aiming for a 90-degree angle at the knees. The name derives from the posture one would adopt when straddling a horse. To progress in this exercise, consistent practice is key.
To perform this exercise:
Step 1: Stand up straight, then put your legs apart, ensuring that your feet are facing forward. Be aware of your torso. Make sure that your spine is straight and your posture is flat.
Step 2: Bend your knees and lower the upper body as if you were sitting on horseback. The lowness of the stance varies in Kung Fu styles, mainly northern and southern: northern is a more relaxed higher stance whereas southern is right down near the ground. Be aware not to put your knees forward or outward over the toes. Make sure your feet are still facing forward, your body is still straight and your hips are loose.
Step 3: You can first start at 30 seconds and try and work your way up to two minutes. This exercise can be performed anywhere anytime, so you can do it while brushing your teeth or when you need a quick break at work.
Monthly Recipe
Chicken Stir-Fry
This is a tasty fall treat and is an easy and ready-to-rock stir fry. Although you can practically throw any combination of protein, veggies and sauce in a pan and call it good, sometimes it’s helpful to have a basic formula to go off of.
Enter: The chicken stir-fry recipe. A stir fry is a great go-to weeknight dinner when we just don’t have the energy to spend a long time in the kitchen or hit the grocery store — this recipe is no exception. You can start here with this super-duper spectacular version, then use it as a jumping-off point to create your perfect chicken stir-fry.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp. honey
- 2 tsp. toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp. canola oil
- 1 head broccoli, cut into small florets
- 1 bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1” pieces
- 1/3 cup cashews
- Freshly ground black pepper
Directions
- In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, honey and sesame oil.
- In a large skillet over high heat, heat oil. Cook broccoli, bell pepper and garlic, stirring frequently, until softened, for about five minutes. Add chicken and cook, tossing occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about eight minutes. Stir in cashews; season with pepper.
- Pour sauce into skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about five minutes.
Source: delish.com
