A October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  It is a time when the American Cancer Society (ACS) joins forces with local supporters in increasing awareness about the wide spread affect of breast cancer in our Nation, while promoting early detection to help save lives.

Excluding skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer found in women.  It accounts for one third of cancer diagnosis for females in America.  Men are in a much lower risk category, but should still be aware of family history and should report any changes in breast tissue to their physician.  In 2005 approximately 1,700 men were diagnosed, while there were approximately 211,000 new cases reported in females.

While the risk of developing breast cancer increases with age, it can affect women at any time.  The median age for diagnosis is 61 years old.   The seriousness and survival rate of breast cancer are largely dependent upon what stage the cancer is in when first detected.  Early detection and treatment is a key factor in survival.  In 2006, over 40,000 women were expected to die from breast cancer.  Lung cancer is the only form of cancer with a higher mortality rate for women.

There are several risk factors associated with breast cancer.  Age, family history, age at first pregnancy, obesity, use of hormones, physical inactivity, and alcohol consumption have all been identified as contributing factors.  Some of these factors are obviously controllable while others are not.  Understanding signs and symptoms and seeking early treatment is by far the best weapon in defending oneself against the disease.

In early stages breast cancer may not have any signs or symptoms at all.  As the cancer progresses to a size in which the tumor can be felt there may be accompanying tenderness, pain, persistent changes, swelling, and skin abnormalities.  Monthly self exams combined with annual clinical screening by your physician, and mammograms for those either over the age of 40, or who are ten years younger than their mother’s age of diagnosis if applicable, are all extremely important in the fight against breast cancer. 

In speaking of awareness, please remember that every November, the American Diabetes Association encourages the public to learn more about diabetes and the risks associated with that disease.  Early detection and an ounce of prevention can go a long way in keeping ourselves and our loved ones healthy.  Please remind the people you care about to educate themselves about both breast cancer and diabetes.

Information in this article was obtained from the American Cancer Society.  For information about cancer or diabetes related resources in your area please contact your ElderCare Specialist at 314-802-5106 or hobrien@standrews1.com.