Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Today, October 1, 2010 mark as start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month an annual international health campaign organized by major breast cancer charities every October to increase awareness of the disease and to raise funds for research into its cause, prevention and cure. The campaign also offers information and support to those affected by breast cancer.

According to www.pueblo.gsa.gov Breast cancer remains a significant health concern for women in the United States. and throughout the world. In the U.S., it is the most common form of cancer in women. After lung cancer, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in women. In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, FCIC has brought together some resources surrounding this health issue.

How do to detect the breast cancer? One of early detection for breast cancer is using regular mammograms and manual breast self-examinations.

Mammogram – A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. Mammograms are the best way to detect breast cancer early when it is easier to treat and before it is big enough to feel or cause symptoms. Women in their 40s and older should have mammograms every 1 to 2 years. Women who are younger than 40 and have risk factors for breast cancer should ask their healthcare provider whether to have mammograms and how often to have them.

Breast self-exam – You may perform monthly breast self-exams to check for any changes in your breasts. It is important to remember that changes can occur because of aging, your menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause, or taking birth control pills or other hormones. Breast self-exams cannot replace regular screening mammograms and clinical breast exams.