“If it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a bloody army to battle cancer”~Niyati Tamaskar
By: Stephanie Suazo
For today’s blog, we are going to discuss Breast Cancer Awareness! We wanted to provide you with important information and tips on self-examination. Breast cancer awareness is to inform the public on the importance of early detection and mammograms. Breast cancer can happen to both men and women. Although the percentage of men who get breast cancer is low, it is still something we will briefly cover. Breast cancer is one of the most deadly cancers that women face. In fact, it is estimated that every 2 minutes a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer in the US. The good news is that the death rates for breast cancer have been declining due to mamograms/screenings, awareness, and treatment.
This blog is meant to provide helpful information, in no way we are providing medical advice. Please contact your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about your health.
In loving memory of Gloria Guevara~A fighter, an inspiration
Did you know?
Did you know that “in 2021, an estimated 281,550 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in the U.S”? Did you also know that “ there are over 3.8 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S”? Did you also know that men can get breast cancer? Did you also know that “1 in 8 women in the U.S will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime”?
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
Making Strides is a great way to honor those who are suffering, survived, or have seen a loved one with breast cancer. The Breast Cancer walk/race is a way of commentating and bringing awareness for the cure. Making Strides also brings a community together by sharing similar experiences. Bringing awareness is the ultimate goal and Making Strides is a great start. For more information, please check out the sources below.
Men and Breast Cancer
It isn’t common but men can also have breast cancer. 1 out of 100 people diagnosed with breast cancer is men. Many risk factors can contribute to breast cancer in men such as liver disease, cirrhosis, obesity, hormone medication, and more. For more information, check out cdc.gov/cancer/breast/men.
Yes, Mammograms are Important
Mammograms are critical! Mammograms are the first step for early detection. It is recommended that mammograms be done every year between the ages of 45–54. You have the option to get mammograms once a year between the ages of 40–44. If you have a family member (sister, mother, aunt, grandmother) who has had breast cancer, it is recommended to get a mammogram between the ages of 29–40. Self-examination or Clinical Breast Exams is another way to detect breast cancer. Contact your doctor or healthcare professional if you feel any lumps or see discoloration in your breasts. The U.S provides free or low-cost mammograms every year. Please check out the Mammogram Facilities Database to see the nearest clinic for you:
BRCA1/BRCA2 Mutation
Many women are getting tested to see if they have inherited cancerous mutations. BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations (Ovarian Cancers and Breast Cancers) can be detected through a genetic test. The best way to do that is to collect your family history, medical information, and speaking with your doctor or genetic counselor. For more information about the BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, please check out cdc.gov.
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