Breast Cancer: Awareness in 2 Parts
There are two kinds of awareness when it comes to breast cancer:
1. Breast Cancer Awareness: Breast Cancer Is Real. And Serious.
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What do you know about breast cancer?
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Are you aware that it’s common? One in eight women will get breast cancer in her lifetime.
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Are you aware that early detection saves lives? (If caught early, there is a good chance of a cure!)
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Are you aware that the majority (75-80%!) of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history? Being female and getting older are the most important risks for breast cancer.
2. Breast Cancer Awareness: This Time It’s Personal.
This kind of awareness is much more personal. It’s about you. It’s about your breasts. We want you to be aware of your own health:
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What can you do to prevent cancer? (think: exercise, limiting alcohol intake, don’t smoke, maintain a healthy weight)
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What can you do to detect cancer early? (self-exams, CBEs and mammograms)
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Know what’s normal for you. (Do you have fibrocystic breasts?). Look and feel for changes in your breasts. Talk to your doctor if any of these changes stick around for more than a month.
We want you to be vigilant and healthy – not afraid. Information is empowering, and we want you to be powerful. Information is awareness. Awareness is powerful.
Image credit: Pink_ribbon By www.azzara.lt [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Originally published 10/2/13 on mammographykc.com.