Breast Cancer Awareness Month
by Chloe McGrath
This October we are focusing on breast cancer in honor and support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is an invasive, widespread disease primarily affecting women 50 years of age or older, however it can also affect males and young adults, so it is important for both women and men to recognize the symptoms. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women, so it accounts for thousands of lost lives each year globally and in the United States.
What are some of the early warning signs that could indicate that you could have breast cancer?
Signs of breast cancer may include:
New lumps or swelling
Discharge
Breast pain, irritation, or redness
Changes in size or shape of breast(s)
You are encouraged to perform breast self-exams at least once a month. If experiencing signs listed above, reach out to your healthcare professional immediately to determine whether changes are life-threatening or safe. Although most bumps that you can feel are non-cancerous, it’s best to just make sure.
Breast cancer develops when abnormal growth in cells begins to multiply and spread to surrounding tissues. Cancer cells can invade other areas of the body by way of your lymphatic system, part of your body’s immune system. This process is very invasive and can cause serious damage to the body, potentially leading to death.
Risk Factors
There are numerous risk factors for breast cancers, some of which are preventable and others that are not.
Factors you can’t control include:
Gender
Age
Race & ethnicity
Obesity
Family history
Genetic factors
Personal health history
Dense breast tissue
Menstrual reproductive history
There are things you can change to decrease the likelihood of getting breast cancer.
Factors you can avoid:
Consumption of alcohol
Lack of physical activity
Poor diet
Being overweight
Not having children
Not breastfeeding
Birth control
Taking hormones
Early Detection Methods
Breast Self-Exams and Mammograms
Early detection of the illness can result in a high survival rate. As mentioned before, the easiest thing you can do monthly is to perform a breast self-exam. If you notice changes or are experiencing discomfort, schedule an appointment with your doctor. Another great test for detecting breast cancer is a mammogram. Abnormalities in the breast that may indicate cancer can be detected in a mammogram (x-ray) years before symptoms appear. It is recommended that all women 40 years of age and above should receive a mammogram annually.
Next Steps
There are other preventative measures you can take as well, so remember that l Lifestyle changes such as healthier diet, limit consumption of alcohol, and being more active can help decrease your risk of breast cancer. In addition, other options aside from mammograms can include:
Surgery
Surgery Ultrasonography (USG)
Chemoprevention
Breast cancer is scary, but by reading and understanding more about breast cancer, you are well on your way to implementing healthier life choices and working towards decreasing your chances of getting breast cancer.
Assisting Hands Home Care Can Help!
Assisting Hands in Rockford can help implement healthier lifestyle changes by preparing healthy meals for your loved one. We can also assist those who are affected by cancer and may need a little assistance at home with activities of daily living. Our in-home care services can range from assisting with walking/mobility, so we are able to accompany you on your doctor’s appointments, to grocery shopping and meal prepping delicious and healthy foods. Schedule your free consultation with us at 815-844-CARE, and get the help you need sooner than later!
Sources
Breast cancer: Breast cancer information & overview. American Cancer Society. (n.d.). Retrieved October 20, 2022, from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer.html
Breastcancer.org – breast cancer information and support. Breastcancer.org – Breast Cancer Information and Support. (n.d.). Retrieved October 20, 2022, from https://www.breastcancer.org/
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, September 26). What is breast cancer? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved October 20, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/what-is-breast-cancer.htm
ABOUT OUR SERVICES
Assisting Hands® can provide assistance in the privacy of their own home for you or a loved one. Our caregivers have training and experience in providing in-home care. They have successfully passed extensive background checks, as well as being insured, bonded, and trained in CPR and First Aid.
Our service plans are individualized to meet the needs of area residents. We assist with the day-to-day activities such as:
- Senior In Home Care
- Elderly Care Services
- Personal Care & Companion Services
- Coordination of Care
- Additional Services
We will help you select the best matched caregiver from its pre-screened group of available assistants and can have qualified help placed in your home generally within 48 hours or less of the initial call.
