Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an annual observance highlighting the importance of breast cancer education, resources, and research. October has been recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month since 1985. This month is organized by many breast cancer organizations, most notably, the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF).
At Green Valley OB/GYN, breast health is one of our primary services. We offer annual exams and preventative screenings for breast cancer, such as 3D mammograms. Breast health is not something we should neglect as women. We proudly support the efforts of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and want to do our part in spreading awareness.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2022
The theme of Breast Cancer Awareness Month this year is “Together we RISE!”. The main initiative is to work to ensure that every woman has access to breast screenings. Preventative screenings, such as mammograms, are one of the top methods of staying on top of your breast health. Unfortunately, many women don’t have the same ability to have a breast cancer screening performed.
The National Breast Cancer Foundation is working this year to raise money so every woman has the resources to get a mammogram or another form of a breast screening. It is recommended that women who are 40 and above get a mammogram every 1-2 years. However, if you have a family history of breast cancer, you should start getting screenings at an earlier age.
Donations will also be used towards breast health education and treatment for people currently with breast cancer. 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. However, men can get breast cancer too. Although it is very rare, breast cancer in men is detected through similar symptoms as breast cancer in women.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month Breakdown
Because breast cancer is so widespread across our nation, it’s important to be knowledgeable on risk factors, treatment, and preventative measures. Breast Cancer Awareness Month encompasses all of the above, focusing on a different element each week. See how you can get involved:
Week 1: Education
Education is an essential part of tackling breast cancer. There are many topics to learn about, whether for preventative needs, during treatment, or post-treatment. This week will walk you through breast cancer symptoms, nutrition advice for those with breast cancer, healthy living tips, stories from breast cancer survivors, and advice on healing after a mastectomy. The National Breast Cancer Foundation provides additional breast cancer facts if you’re searching for further resources.
Week 2: Empowerment
This week is all about uplifting people during their breast cancer journey. NBCF will advise on how to show support for your loved ones with breast cancer and speak about it openly. They also want to hear from survivors and women still battling breast cancer about who in their life made them feel empowered.
Week 3: Action
The third week is the time to share your involvement and get others involved. National Mammography Day falls on Friday, the 21st, where you can take the mammography pledge and encourage others to do so. Also, the NBCF provides graphics with breast cancer statistics to share on social media. Commit to spreading breast cancer awareness this week.
Week 4: Community
A breast cancer journey is a tough road to be on alone. Coming together as a community positively impacts breast cancer patients and their loved ones. This week promotes sharing support and encouragement for someone on their journey and donating to patients in need.
Week 5: Hope
The last day of the month is focused on having hope. That’s one thing someone on their breast cancer journey can never have enough of. Share uplifting stories and send a card of encouragement to those who need it. Positive encouragement can leave a significant impact on breast cancer patients.
If you’d like to follow along each day for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, download the calendar here.
At Green Valley OB/GYN, we recognize the importance of preventative screening for breast health. If you’re due for a mammogram or interested in learning more about breast health, contact us at (336)378-1110.