OCTOBER - THE CLARION CALL FOR BREAST CANCER AWARENESS

OCTOBER - THE CLARION CALL

FOR BREAST CANCER AWARENESS

Mike Tussey

The Ashland Beacon

As beautiful as the month of October can be, it’s also the one month of the year that we focus on the opportunity to raise awareness of breast cancer. It’s a call to action for timely diagnosis and quality care.

    The very sound of the word cancer propels a high degree of fear among us all. Here in mid-October, it’s time to turn our attention to – BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

    This year’s theme is to know and understand the warning signs, risk factors and cancer statistics as well as improving diagnosis and treatment.

    It should be noted that Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) calls for increased awareness and early diagnosis with better and more equitable access to quality breast cancer care.

Why?  This one sentence sums it up –

  BREAST CANCER IS THE MOST COMMON CANCER AMONG WOMEN

    Facts and numbers always seem to gain the attention of the public, so here are some startling numbers that should catch your attention from 2024:

·     2.4 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer worldwide

·      694,000 women died from the disease

·      8.2 million women were living with breast cancer at the end of the year

    It’s very important to remember that behind every diagnosis there is a person, a family and a unique journey that could occur. The challenges obviously are different amongst various patients.

    You should understand the risk of breast cancer increases with such factors as age, obesity, alcohol use, family history, and even tobacco use.

    Don’t be misled, almost 80% of breast cancers develop in women who have no risk factors other than being female and increasing age.

KNOW THE SIGNS

    For women of all ages, it is very important to be aware of the changes in the breasts and to seek medical advice if something seems unusual. Signs such as a breast lump or thickening change in the size or shape of the breast. This includes changes in the skin or nipple or abnormal fluid.

    As mentioned, it’s a good idea to contact your doctor for advice and if warranted, you will be given information as to when a Mammogram should be performed.

    According to the American Cancer Society – 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, accounting for1 in 3 new cancer diagnoses in women each year. In fact, more than 320,000 cases of invasive breast cancer are projected to be diagnosed this year alone.

    Breast Cancer Awareness Month brings about memories of a very scary incident within our family many years ago.  

My wife Jo remembers well her experience, care and blessings:

    “It was a Monday in 1962 and I was with our young son at his doctor’s office for his checkup when I felt severe pain on my left breast after it was touched by my arm. My doctor noticed my reaction and asked what was wrong? After explaining the pain to him he examined me and said that I should see my doctor as soon as possible. An appointment was set for me that coming Wednesday and his examination revealed that I should have surgery that coming Friday. I had no biopsy before as this was the first sign of any pain. The results indicated a growth that resembled a cluster of grapes and so surgery was done to remove it before it turned into cancer. For the next 6 to 12 months, I underwent testing to keep an eye on any activity that might return. For me, I feel I was very lucky and blessed because over time - nothing further developed. Take my advice, be sure and have your regular check-ups and to be aware of any symptoms that could develop. You’ll be glad you did!”     

    So, right now, here in October – here is the game plan to turn awareness into action:

·      Raise Awareness by sharing information about breast cancer and the very importance of seeking care immediately when symptoms occur.

·      Listen and Support by recognizing that every person’s experience is different and ensure that due support is available.

·      Improve access by working to remove barriers to an early diagnosis and quality treatment.

Remember, everyone has a role to play in making breast cancer care more accessible and equitable. Here’s the teamwork that is needed for sure:

·    Individuals and communities can share trusted information and help raise awareness

·    Health professionals can support early detection, timely diagnosis and high-quality care

·    Organizations and partners can amplify campaign messages and support local and national action

    The call to action - October is moving quickly day by day and during the next 11 days - let’s be proactively aware and get the job done!