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