Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Learn how to conduct a breast self-exam

BY MEGHA PATEL '20

Performing monthly breast self-exams allows you to familiarize yourself with both the look and the feel of your breasts, helping you to easily recognize any abnormalities when the time comes. According to the nonprofit Breastcancer.org, three-quarters of breast cancer patients have no family history and are therefore not considered high risk, so it is important to check frequently, even if there are no other warning signs. There are several ways to complete a breast self-exam, so feel free to choose which one works best for you.

When should I start thinking about my breast health?

BY SABRINA EDWARDS '20

The number of women diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime in the U.S. has increased steadily from 10 percent in the 1970s to 12.4 percent today, according to the National Cancer Institute. A lifetime is a long time, though; when should women start considering their breast health?

Increased breast cancer risk stems from age and genetics

BY HALEY LUCIAN ’17

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women and is the second leading cause of death due to cancer among women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. According to Breastcancer.org, it is estimated that 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, so it is not surprising that over time this topic lingers in the back of people’s minds.

Focus on early breast cancer detection this October!

BY SARA ROTTGER '19

 

Breast Cancer Awareness Month means more than buying pink-ribboned products; it’s also a time for spreading information and dispelling rumors. While one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, according to the U.S. Department of Health’s HealthFinder, early detection is possible. Understanding risk factors such as age and genetics can also help with prevention. Even college students can practice habits, such as performing regular self-exams, that create routines that become vital in later life. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, make it a priority to share information and encourage those at potentially higher risk to speak with their doctors. If you choose to donate, use services such as Charity Navigator to find foundations that truly service the needs of breast cancer patients.