October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. According to the National Cancer Institute, breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women. Although rare, men can get breast cancer, too. Since 1985, October has been a time to increase awareness and encourage everyone to stay informed to know the risk factors, symptoms, and how to detect signs of breast cancer.
Stay informed. Take the time to review the following resources regarding breast cancer this month:
Watch
- From the CDC, learn more about when it’s time to start getting mammograms.
Listen
- Listen to a podcast to learn more about breast cancer and also hear stories of hope and strength from breast cancer survivors.
Read
- Read breast cancer survivor’s stories from the Living Beyond Breast Cancer blog.
Research
- Learn more about breast cancer, including breast cancer in men, the risk factors for breast cancer, and breast cancer screening.
- While breast cancer is most common in women 50 years and older, breast cancer can also affect younger women. Learn more about breast cancer in younger women as the CDC works to increase awareness.
Reflect
- Reflect on the National Breast Cancer Foundation’s 2022 Breast Cancer Awareness Month Theme: RISE – Rally in Screening Everyone.
Act
- Learn how to implement a self-exam into your monthly routine.
- Participate in Pink Week from October 4th – October 6th with a series of both virtual and in-person events.
- Take the Mammogram Pledge – a pledge to prioritize your health through both annual screenings and mammograms, specifically for women over the age of 40.
- Observe National Mammography Day, October 21st, by scheduling a mammogram.