It’s October! Which means it’s not only the spookiest time of year, but it’s National Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Did you know about 12% of women develop breast cancer in the United States annually? This means that there’s a 1 in 8 chance that the average American woman will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Although there’s still a 7 in 8 chance that she won’t, among the many different forms of cancer, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death, killing over 40,000 women each year.
There have been many women who have developed breast cancer and weren’t even remotely aware of it. So sis, let’s talk about how can make sure we’re not left in the dark when it comes to our boobies. Breast cancer can be detected pretty early on through simple self-examinations. It’s recommended to perform a self-exam every month.
If you’re wondering how to give yourself a breast exam, the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. gives instruction as to how to properly perform the examination, along with a video representation of it here: http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-self-exam.
Simply raising awareness can save someone’s life. Here at Hampton University, there are events such as the 3rd Annual Pink Bowl, a football game hosted by students and the Gala of Hope, a formal event held at the Hampton University Proton Therapy Institute that raise money in efforts to help those who cannot afford medical care. Also, if you’re in or around the Hampton Roads Area, there are many events like Making Stride of Hampton Roads, a walk in Virginia Beach, and the 5th Annual Passion For Pink Breast Cancer Awareness Expo. You can find other events in the area at: http://www.dailypress.com/health/dp-fea-breast-cancer-events-oct16-20161015-story.html
If you can’t find breast cancer awareness events near you, can always donate at https://donate.nationalbreastcancer.org to get involved.