Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed worldwide during the month of October. We use this month to increase attention and educate others on ways they can protect themselves from breast cancer. Breast Cancer affects 1 in every 8 women in the United States. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, in 2020 it is estimated that 276,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in the United States. The best way to protect ourselves from breast cancer is early detection. According to the American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is detected early, the survival rate is 99%. This is why it is important to educate other on the warning signs of breast cancer.

Some Warning signs of breast cancer are:

• New lump in the breast or underarm
• Thickening or swelling of part of the breast
• Irritation or dimpling of breast skin
• Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast
• Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood
• Any change in the size or the shape of the breast
• Pain in any area of the breast

For more information on breast cancer, refer to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.