By Antisia King

October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating and empowering people across the globe about the importance of breast health. As we wear pink ribbons and participate in awareness campaigns, the message extends far beyond support—it’s about fostering knowledge, encouraging early detection, and understanding that taking charge of one’s breast health can be lifesaving.

The Significance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed every October, is more than just a symbolic show of solidarity; it’s an opportunity to emphasize the importance of education and early detection. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, affecting 1 in 8 women over their lifetime. While the numbers can seem daunting, the reality is that breast cancer is most treatable when caught early.

Through events, fundraisers, and advocacy campaigns, this month serves as a reminder that regular screenings and self-awareness play crucial roles in combating the disease. It empowers women, men, and families with the tools they need to monitor their breast health and take proactive steps towards prevention.

The Importance of Knowing Your Breast Health
Understanding breast health means becoming familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts. Regular self-examinations are a key component of this awareness. By checking your breasts monthly, you become attuned to changes that could signal an issue, such as lumps, changes in size, or abnormalities in the skin. Early detection can make a significant difference in the treatment outcome.

Mammograms are another vital tool. These screening tests can detect abnormalities before they’re felt, making them critical for women over the age of 40 or those with a family history of breast cancer. However, breast cancer doesn’t discriminate by age, and younger women are also encouraged to maintain breast health through annual check-ups and clinical exams.

Early Detection Saves Lives
Early detection dramatically increases the chances of survival. When breast cancer is caught in its earliest stages, the five-year survival rate is around 99%. This underscores the importance of regular screenings, which can find cancer before symptoms even arise. In fact, studies have shown that mammograms can reduce breast cancer deaths by up to 40% in women ages 50 to 69.

For women with dense breast tissue or a family history of the disease, discussions with healthcare providers about additional screening methods such as ultrasounds or MRIs may be necessary. While no one test is perfect, a combination of self-exams, clinical screenings, and mammograms offers the best chance for early detection. Seeing this firsthand with my mother, with breast cancer being Hartery in my family, I understand and appreciate that early detection saves lives like my mother, Thomasine Johnson, double mastectomy and my Aunt Rena Rogers, single mastectomy are both cancer survivors because of early detection. This being something that runs in my family I make sure I practice good breast health, with annual checkups, self-exams, diet and exercises, eating foods that fight cancers is my preventive care.

Education and Support
Knowledge is power, and being informed about breast cancer risk factors, including lifestyle choices, genetics, and environmental exposures, can help reduce the likelihood of a diagnosis. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, organizations work tirelessly to spread this information, ensuring that individuals have access to the resources and support they need.

Advancements in treatment, coupled with growing awareness of the disease, mean that women diagnosed with breast cancer today have more options and better outcomes than ever before. Support networks, both online and in-person, provide a sense of community and strength, as individuals share their journeys and lend encouragement to others going through the same battle.

This October, take charge of your breast health. Here are some key actions to incorporate into your routine:
• Perform monthly self-exams – Know what’s normal for your body.
• Schedule regular screenings – If you’re over 40, or younger with a family history, make mammograms a priority.
• Talk to your doctor – Discuss your personal risk factors and the right screening plan for you.
• Spread awareness – Share information with loved ones and encourage them to prioritize their breast health.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder that knowledge, early detection, and ongoing support can save lives. Let’s empower ourselves and those around us to take proactive steps in understanding breast health—not just for one month, but all year round.