Pink October
Despite a lot of negativity and hardships, the year 2020 has reminded us that we all are in this together. Most of us have realized that and have made choices keeping each others’ wellness and health in mind. The whole world has worked together as a team in fighting this pandemic.
The same holds true when we talk about Breast cancer. With each other's support and by working mindfully we can increase the attention and support for the awareness and care for Breast cancer.
Every year, the month of October is recognized as the Breast Cancer Awareness month worldwide. It is an annual campaign which aims towards educating women and young girls about breast cancer, its detection and treatment as well as the medical care of this disease.
According to the IARC Globocan, there are about 1.38 million new cases and 4,58,000 deaths from breast cancer each year. Breast Cancer is the most common type of cancer which is found in women worldwide. In the developing and underdeveloped countries, the risks of this disease increase rapidly.
Even with so many advances in the medical field, there is not sufficient knowledge and awareness amongst women related to this fatal disease. Due to its unfamiliar causes, early detection becomes the foundation of breast cancer control.
What exactly is Breast Cancer? Well, in simple words it is a type of cancer that starts in the breasts. It starts when the cells begin to grow out of control and form lumps. Some lumps are non-cancerous but could turn into cancerous in the future. Breast cancer cells generally form a tumor which can be seen in the X-rays or can be felt as a lump. Not only women, but some men also might have the chances to develop cancerous cells in their life.
This disease has a lot of serious risks associated with it. Therefore, it is important to watch out for them. Women who have a family history of breast cancer carry a higher chance of getting hit by this disease. Age is an important factor and as women get older, there is a higher risk of breast cancer. Hormonal changes also contribute to causing breast cancer in women.
There are a lot of ways to reduce the chances of breast cancer in the future. Exercising regularly and keeping a healthy weight can help you shorten the risk of developing this risk. Less or no consumption of alcohol also goes a long way. So, practicing these habits from an early age can be beneficial to reduce the risks of ever having breast cancer in your life.
The good thing about this type of cancer is its early detection. There are several ways in which women can detect if they are developing any cancerous cells at home.
Here are some common symptoms and warning signs of Breast Cancer:
1.Formation of a lump in the breasts or armpits.
2. Thickening or swelling of part of the breast.
3. Irritation or dimpling of breast skin.
4. Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast.
5. Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area.
6. Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood.
7. Any change in the size or the shape of the breast.
8. Pain in any area of the breast.
It is better to keep in mind that these symptoms can occur due to other some non cancerous conditions but it wouldn’t hurt to keep them in mind for early detection in case of cancer.
Breast cancer is fortunately, one of those cancers which can be treated if diagnosed at an early stage. After diagnosis, comes proper medical treatment. Based on your treatment choices, a team of specialized doctors called oncologists and surgeons are available. It’s important to discuss all of your treatment choices, including their goals and possible side effects, with your doctors to help make a smart decision that fits your case.
While I truly believe that it’s very personal how we survivors and warriors feel about the pink overload, this much is true: With every ribbon, every balloon, every slogan, I remind myself how lucky I am to be here still fighting, mouthing off and kicking ass. I will wear the “pink badge of honour” every day this month as I have for the past seven years.
— Jennifer Pellechio-Lukowiak, a breast cancer survivor and an author.
Over the years, we have seen a lot of breast cancer survivors and have continued to be inspired by them. One thing we should all take away from them is courage. Courage to fight, the courage to overcome and courage to be fearless. The month of October means different things to different people. For some, it is about celebrating strength and survival and for others, it is about educating and making people aware of Breast Cancer.
Breast cancer is scary and no one can quite understand what it does to a person except for the ones who, unfortunately have gone through it. Let’s take this opportunity to be alert and well-versed about our personal health and increase awareness about Breast cancer while bashing the myths that come along with it. Let’s extend our support to all those going through it. Let’s also remember that all of us are strong and powerful and there is nothing in this world we can’t overcome with courage and hope. Breast cancer changes you for sure but this change can be beautiful.
