Aside from skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. American women have a 1 in 8 chance of developing this cancer at some point in their lives. October was established as the official breast cancer awareness month to bring awareness to this cancer. Here’s the purpose and history behind this important month.
Purpose of Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Why have an entire month dedicated to breast cancer? The purpose is twofold: educating and listening.
Educating Women
We know that early detection is a crucial element to a higher rate of survival and more treatment options. The month of October gives a chance to raise awareness and give women the tools they need to detect breast abnormalities.
This month helps encourage women to get mammograms. You may wonder why mammograms are important; you may even be tempted to put yours off. Simply put, mammograms save lives. Mammograms are an important cancer screening that can detect abnormalities in your breasts. It is important to note that mammograms are one of the most effective ways to find breast cancer early.
It is also important for women to take charge of their health by learning how to perform proper breast examinations. Breast self-examinations can be performed for purposes other than finding anomalies. You should perform these to familiarize yourself with how your breasts normally feel. This makes it easy to recognize any changes right away. It is crucial to identify problems as soon as possible. A study found that 25% of the women who self-examined their breasts discovered abnormalities. Don’t undervalue the value of understanding your body.
Listening to the Stories of Survivors
Another powerful aspect of breast cancer awareness month is listening to the stories of breast cancer survivors. This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate those who have battled with this disease and encourage those currently walking through it.
Listening to their stories helps bring about important conversations dealing with the risks, family history, and breast cancer prevention. Learning the stories of women affected by breast cancer inspires us to continue in the fight against this disease.
Personal testimony is impactful, and these stories inspire women of all ages to talk to their doctors about their risks and preventative care.
History of Breast Cancer Awareness Month
The first organized event pertaining to breast cancer happened in October 1985. It was a joint effort between the American Cancer Society and AstraZeneca. The purpose was to draw attention to breast cancer.
Betty Ford, who was a breast cancer survivor, was in attendance at the event. She was diagnosed with breast cancer when her husband, Gerald Ford, was president of the United States. This diagnosis brought a spotlight to this cancer which garnered the public’s interest and attention.
As time went on, more people became interested in the cause, and larger campaigns came about to draw attention to breast cancer. These efforts have done much to increase awareness, raise needed funds, and educate women.
Fast Access to Healthcare Professionals
UBERDOC allows you to get the care you need in an easy and affordable way. We offer in-person and telemedicine appointments, ensuring you have access to the healthcare you need, no matter how busy or restrictive your day is. To find out more about how to schedule a mammogram on UBERDOC and how UBERDOC can help you, contact us today!
