Breast Cancer Awareness Month occurs every October. During this time, people all over the world come together to raise awareness about the disease, to garner support, and to raise funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure. Breast cancer is currently the second-most common cancer diagnosed in women globally. In the United States, over 280,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 49,000 cases of non-invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women by the end of 2022.

Generally, doctors share that women at the age of 40 should speak to their primary care or ob-gyn provider about whether they should begin scheduling annual screening mammograms, as guidelines differ on the age at which women should start screening mammograms and the decision to begin is a shared decision between you and your healthcare provider who takes into account your breast cancer risk factors.

Getting Involved:

There are several ways in which you can get involved and raise awareness about breast cancer this October:

1.  Volunteer

2.  Donate or host a fundraiser

3.  Educate yourself and others about the importance of screening mammograms

4.  Share your cancer experience

5.  Get involved in breast cancer research

6.  Fund research initiatives

7.  Participate in a local walk or run

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

· Lump in the breast or underarm

· Dimpling or irritation of the breast skin

· Pain in any area of the breast

· Discharge from the nipple other than breast milk

· Swelling or thickening of part of the breast

· Change in the size and shape of the breast

· Nipple or breast skin that is red, dry, flaking or thickened

· Inversion or pulling of the nipple inward

· Swollen lymph nodes under the arm or around the collar bone If you have any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your health care professional. Early detection of breast cancer is easier to treat successfully.

To learn more, please view our website at: philia-care.com or call us at: 202-607-2525 to schedule a complimentary personal consultation for your loved one. It would be an honor to help you!