As we reach the month of October, we officially begin Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Yet beyond fundraising and awareness campaigns like races and pink ribbons, educating yourself and others about the cause itself and learning about the necessary steps to adopt in order to detect
As we reach the month of October, we officially begin Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Yet beyond fundraising and awareness campaigns like races and pink ribbons, educating yourself and others about the cause itself and learning about the necessary steps to adopt in order to detect the disease at the earliest time is crucial, and possibly the most important action you can do.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) was founded in 1985 to spread education about Breast Cancer and to promote screening mammography as the main defence mechanism against Breast Cancer mortality. BCAM is nowadays an annual campaign renowned by many countries and supported by many cancer survivors. Pink is the color of Breast Cancer awareness because it represents feminine bravery, hope and positivity, belief in scientific advancement for Breast Cancer cure and the kindness of donors and partners who are supportive of the movement against Breast Cancer. Putting on a pink ribbon indicates solidarity with the women and men who are living with the disease.
What is Breast Cancer?
The term "Cancer" refers to a group of diseases in which cells divide and grow out of control and that could potentially be life threatening, especially if left untreated. This abnormal growth is the result of mutations or other changes in certain genes which will lead to the formation of a mass of cells, called the tumor. Breast Cancer can occur in various parts of the breast, but most frequently begins in the ducts, thin tubes that bring milk from the milk-producing lobules to the nipple during breastfeeding. Yet, Breast Cancer can also start in these milk-producing lobules. If the cancer reaches nearby tissues, it is considered invasive whereas in situ Breast Cancers (ductal or lobular carcinoma in situ DCIS/LCIS, respectively) are precancerous lesions comprised of abnormal cells that have not spread or invaded local tissues. Other rarer forms of Breast Cancer include Inflammatory Breast Cancer, Paget's disease, and phyllodes tumor. It’s extremely important to remember that men can also get Breast Cancer. Early detection and treatment improves the chances of survival from this cancer.
Signs and Symptoms
Mammograms and breast observation are the recommended screening methods and are essential in detecting breast cancer, however it is important to note that sometimes early breast cancer has no signs or symptoms at all. Signs include unusual lump in the breast or underarm area, swelling of all or part of the breast, skin irritation or