23 Oct Breast Cancer Awareness Month: What it is and why it matters
Amidst the Halloween decorations and fall pumpkins, October is the month where everything seems to turn pink. That’s because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Pink ribbons, pink sports jerseys, and even pink fountains can be seen in support of breast cancer awareness.
At Alabama Cancer Care, our goal is to provide the best possible service and treatment to those diagnosed with cancer. However, our ultimate goal is like yours: for a cure. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with breast cancer, it can be overwhelming. There are many ways to get support, have your questions answered, and find the best next steps for your treatment.
I’ve Been Diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Now what?
One out of eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Learning that you have cancer can lead one to feel overwhelmed, stressed, and hopeless. However, it doesn’t have to be. There are many cancer treatment options for breast cancer, and the truth is, you are never alone.
The first step of a cancer journey is getting your friends and family involved. Your loved ones will be an amazing support system for you as you discern what your medical treatment options are and where to engage in your cancer treatment.
At Alabama Cancer Centers, we have many clinics that specialize in a variety of cancer treatments and will give you the best possible care. In addition to your friends and family, our medical staff acts as a support system for you throughout your cancer journey. Our team will walk you through your unique situation, the severity of your diagnosis, and how to best move forward to reach healing.
How to Honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month
When it comes to cancer awareness, it tends to be a personal affair. It’s likely that we know someone who has been affected by this disease, which should give us a reason to have a vested interest in cancer awareness. Continuing education and awareness is incredibly important in removing the stigma of breast cancer, educating people on ways to reduce their risk, and building a supportive community.
Here are some ways to honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month:
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Share stories
An amazing way to honor breast cancer survivors is by taking the time to listen to their story. Take some time this month to meet with someone you know who is a breast cancer survivor, and offer your empathy and a listening ear.
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Find a local event
Many organizations, such as the non-profit Susan G. Komen, have events in cities all over the nation during the month of October. Attending a local fundraising gala or participating in a 5k race is a practical way to give money to research while spreading awareness.
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Wear pink
National Wear Pink Day is October 18, but most people wear pink all month long. Wear pink to raise awareness and start conversations with others about what it means to be involved in cancer research and awareness.
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Donate
Ultimately, there are many organizations that are raising funds to find cures for all kinds of cancer, including breast cancer. Donating to these organizations helps them acquire the resources they need for proper staff and research materials for finding a cure.
Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer
While breast cancer cannot always be prevented, there are things you can do to reduce your risk. Some risk factors cannot be prevented, but by making a few lifestyle changes you can decrease your risk of breast cancer.
You can lower your risk of breast cancer by:
- Limiting your alcohol intake.
- Exercising for at least 30 minutes a day.
- Limiting your hormone therapy dosage during menopause.
- Receiving and practicing annual breast cancer screenings.
Alabama Cancer Care
At Alabama Cancer Care, we care about you and your loved ones. We’re passionate about providing the best care possible. We hold a continuous effort to evolve treatment, keep abreast of the latest research and provide the hope all our patients need when facing a cancer diagnosis.
If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with breast cancer or another form of cancer, we hope you consider Alabama Cancer Care, and allow our expert physicians to help you find your best road to recovery.
Visit an Alabama Cancer Care Center
Alabama Cancer Care is an oncology and hematology practice offering understanding and skilled treatment for a wide range of illnesses. Alabama Cancer Care believes patient care starts with TRUST and HOPE. For more information, give us a call at the Alabama Cancer Center office nearest you.
Contact us in our offices in Anniston at (256) 847-3369, Ft. Payne at (256) 845-3500, Gadsden at (256) 547-0536, Montgomery at (334) 273-8877, and Sylacauga at (256) 245-0297.