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Breast Cancer Awareness Month

© Nancy Coulter

After writing the last article, it was brought to my attention that October has been also designated "Breast Cancer Awarness Month" (in addition to "Domestic Violence Awareness Month").

It is unfortunate that we even have to go to the trouble of having these designations for a month. However, it is also important that we are aware of what is going on and what is being done so that eventually, breast cancer and domestic violence are things that women don't have to worry about.

The key to beating breast cancer is early detection. Many women already make it a habit to do monthly self exams of their breasts. This is a habit that should be started by all women in their twenties. Although breast cancer usually isn't found in young women, that doesn't mean that it isn't possible.

There has recently been much debate over when women should start having mammograms done and how often they should be done. Generally, women should start having annual mammograms at the age of 40. Some women may get them done bi-annually or even more often. Although that isn't necessary, it is always best to be safe than sorry. Mammograms are not comfortable processes to go through. In fact, they are possibly the most uncomfortable thing a woman has to go through aside from child birth and annual gynecological exams. However, a little pain once a year is quite worth it when your life is on the line.

Every 11 minutes, another woman dies of breast cancer. One in eight women will get breast cancer over their lifetime. When you take some time to look at the hard facts, the affects of breast cancer are mind blowing.

Breast cancer isn't something that just affects women. Although the incidence is low, it is possible for men to develop breast cancer. Also, any man's mother, sister or daughter could easily find a cancerous lump. Since breast cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer all people, we all must be aware of this disease.

It may be depressing to have a month designated for another tragedy that women must deal with, but it is also important that we don't ignore these problems. Ignorance can be bliss, but it can also be deadly with something like breast cancer. So wear a little pink ribbon, put one on your webpage, pin one on your blouse... do whatever you want to so that more people know about this disease, but do something.

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