October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: a time to honor survivors, remember those we’ve lost, and raise awareness about the importance of early detection. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide, but when found early, it is often highly treatable. Education, regular screening, and proactive self-care make a difference.
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer begins when abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. It can occur in both women and men, but women are far more commonly affected. 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Over 4 million breast cancer survivors are living in the U.S. today. Early detection improves survival rates dramatically. When breast cancer is found early and is localized, the 5-year survival rate is 99%.
Risk Factors
While any woman can develop breast cancer, certain factors can increase risk: family history of breast or ovarian cancer, BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, age (risk increases after 40), early onset of menstruation or late menopause, hormone therapy after menopause, and lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol use, and obesity.
Warning Signs
It’s important to know what’s normal for your body. Warning signs include: a lump or thickening in the breast or underarm, a change in breast size or shape, skin changes such as dimpling or puckering, nipple changes or discharge, or persistent breast pain. If you notice any of these changes, reach out to your healthcare provider right away. Want a more detailed breakdown? Watch this helpful video on the signs of breast cancer:
The Power of Screening
Early detection saves lives. Recommended practices include: breast self-awareness (get familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, report changes), clinical breast exams (ask your provider to perform regular checks), mammograms (most guidelines recommend beginning annual or biannual screening at age 40, or earlier if you’re high-risk).
Do you know how to perform a self-exam? Watch this step-by-step guide:
How You Can Support
Breast Cancer Awareness Month isn’t just about wearing pink; it’s about taking action:
- Schedule your screening or remind a friend to do the same
- Support organizations funding research or patient care
- Offer encouragement to survivors and those in treatment.
Closing Encouragement
As women, we often put our health last. But you deserve care, attention, and time to protect your well-being. Taking small steps toward awareness and early detection can make all the difference.
Be well,
Carley