Thursday, October 1, 2015

October- breast cancer awareness month




Today marks the beginning of breast cancer awareness month.



Ladies please ask your health care provider about breast cancer screening especially if you have a family history of breast cancer, African American or over the age of 40 years old. 



Men encourage the women you know to go get screened.



If you are a survivor- please take the opportunity to share your story and encourage another woman who may be struggling at the moment with breast cancer.



Facts about Breast Cancer in the United States

        One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.

        Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women.

        Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among women.

        Each year it is estimated that over 220,000 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer and more than 40,000 will die.

        Although breast cancer in men is rare, an estimated 2,150 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer and approximately 410 will die each year.

Retrieved from: http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-facts



Symptoms of breast cancer vary from person to person. Some common breast cancer signs and symptoms include:

        Skin changes, such as swelling, redness, or other visible differences in one or both breasts

        An increase in size or change in shape of the breast(s)

        Changes in the appearance of one or both nipples

        Nipple discharge other than breast milk

        General pain in/on any part of the breast

        Lumps or nodes felt on or inside of the breast

Symptoms more specific to invasive breast cancer are as follows:

        Irritated or itchy breasts

        Change in breast color

        Increase in breast size or shape (over a short period of time)

        Changes in touch (may feel hard, tender or warm)

        Peeling or flaking of the nipple skin

        A breast lump or thickening

        Redness or pitting of the breast skin (like the skin of an orange)

Retrieved from: http://www.cancercenter.com/breast-cancer





Vilma

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