While most people think October means fall colors like oranges and browns, it’s actually pink that’s associated with the month. That’s because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and pink is a major theme.
Every year, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is central to a yearly campaign to raise awareness about one of the leading cancers in women. This year’s theme is “RISE” or Rally in Screening Everyone.
The best way to detect breast cancer is with a mammogram. Breast cancer is easiest to treat when it’s caught in its early stages. That’s because when you diagnose breast cancer in its early stages, it helps you fight the cancer before it’s big enough to feel or cause symptoms in a more advanced and dangerous stage.
Breast cancer takes a major toll in the U.S., with about 255,000 women getting breast cancer and 42,000 women a year dying from the disease. While men can also get breast cancer, only 1% of breast cancer diagnoses are in men.
Breast cancer primarily affects women over the age of 50. But younger women are also diagnosed with the disease.
To be proactive and to benefit your health, schedule a mammogram. Scheduling a mammogram is as easy and as simple as calling your local medical health provider or going online to make an appointment.
Know the Symptoms of Breast Cancer
The symptoms of breast cancer can vary. Sometimes there are no symptoms. This is why you should have a regular mammogram.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists these common breast cancer symptoms:
—Any change in the size or shape of the breast
—Pain in any area of the breast
—Nipple discharge other than breast milk (which includes blood)
—A new lump in the breast or under your arm
If you find any of these signs or symptoms, or even if you are unsure or have concerns about possible symptoms, be sure to see your doctor right away. Making an early diagnosis of breast cancer is a key to success.
Lower Your Risk of Breast Cancer
One way to safeguard your health when it comes to breast cancer is lowering your risk.
The CDC lists several ways to lower your risk of breast cancer:
—Keep a healthy weight and exercise regularly.
—Don’t drink alcohol. If you do drink alcohol, limit the amount you consume.
—If you’re taking hormone replacement therapy, ask your doctor about the risk.
A CARING-FIRST ENVIRONMENT
Senior living communities like Bellaire at Stone Port are precisely that—a community. Residents become friends and even family, and a caring team is there to help them maintain their quality of life.
At Bellaire at Stone Port, we offer both Assisted Living and Memory Care and we care with Honesty, Excellence, Accountability, Residents first and Teamwork. We like to call it Caring with H.E.A.R.T.™!
If you believe a senior living community would benefit your loved one, get in touch with us. Schedule a visit or download a brochure today!