October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The month and its pink ribbon campaign are dedicated to increasing awareness of the importance of early breast cancer detection. Despite the heightened attention towards breast cancer and the success, in recent years, of the pink ribbon campaign, many individuals are still under-informed about breast cancer and the importance of preventative screening. The South College Library has a mammography guide, which you can use to educate yourself on breast screening, find resources for patient education and skills sheets, and read a useful infographic detailing the importance of getting regular mammograms.  

Breast cancer starts in the cells of the breast as a group of cancer cells that then invade surrounding tissues or spread to other areas of the body. It is estimated that 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and for the year 2023, it is estimated that 297,790 women and 2800 men will be diagnosed. When caught early in the localized stage, the five-year relative survival rate is estimated to be 99% (National Breast Cancer Foundation, 2023).  

Signs & Symptoms 

  • Change in look/feel of breast or nipple 

  • Lumps: mass, growth, or swelling within the breast tissue (majority of lumps are non-cancerous) 

  • Cysts: a generally harmless sac filled with fluid rather than a cancerous or benign lump of cells 

  • Change in appearance of breast or nipple 

  • Discharge coming out of nipple 

It is important to do monthly self-check breast exams to check for any of the above signs and symptoms, as well as scheduling regular mammograms once you reach age 40.  

Risk Factors 

  • Older age  

  • Genetics 

  • Reproductive history 

  • Higher weight 

  • Alcohol consumption 

There are many ways you can support a loved one who was diagnosed with breast cancer. Spending time with them and doing activities that are not too strenuous, such as a short walk, will help take their mind off things for a little while. Being willing to listen and understand how they feel. Sometimes they just want someone who is willing to listen. If you can, try taking care of some of their errands. This will help ease some of their stress and lighten their load. You can send a note or text telling them that they are important to you and that you care about them. One other way to support them is by offering to take them to appointments. This helps them not feel alone and can help ease the mental load of the diagnosis.  

 

National Breast Cancer Foundation. (2023). Learn about breast cancer. https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/about-breast-cancer/