The Mycenaean

Breast cancer is a disease where cells in the breast grow out of control. There are several kinds of breast cancer. Ductal carcinoma is the most common kind of breast cancer present in women. 

How does one get Breast Cancer?

Most breast cancer cases are heredity meaning it is passed on through genes. It is an inherited mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2. These genes are mutated which leads to abnormal cell growth and eventually cancer.

Who is most likely to receive Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is mostly found in older women. Specifically, women who are 50 years or older. Between the ages of 45 and 65, a woman’s chances of getting breast cancer increase. 

White and Black women are more likely to develop breast cancer. Hispanic women have the lowest chance of developing breast cancer. Factors that vary by race are age of first period, menopause, first childbirth, bodyweight, breastfeeding, number or childbirths, and menopausal hormone therapy. These factors are linked to an increased breast cancer risk. 

Symptoms 

Breast cancer symptoms develop within 3-6 months. Symptoms can include a new lump in the breast or underarm, thickening or swelling of the breast, irritation, itchiness, redness, ect. 

A lump in the breast is usually the first sign of breast cancer. Many individuals can’t feel the lump themselves. These lumps are discovered by a mammogram. 

Get Checked Early!

A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast. Mammograms are used to determine early signs of breast cancer. Women need to receive regular mammograms. By receiving regular mammograms breast cancer risks can be reduced.

If the cancer is present and caught early, it is less difficult to treat. The patient most likely won’t need harsh treatments such as surgeries and chemotherapies. 

Treatments Are Available And Effective

There are many treatments available for breast cancer, however, they are difficult, expensive, and not always reliable. Surgery to remove the breast or tissue, chemotherapy, and different therapies are used to treat breast cancer. 

Breast cancer is treatable, especially when found early. The 5-year survival rate for breast cancer is 90%. However, it is very serious and life-threatening. 

Why Breast Cancer Awareness Month 

Breast Cancer Awareness Month dates back to October 1985. It was the first movement to bring awareness to the U.S. October has been devoted to Breast Cancer Awareness. 

Breast Cancer Awareness month is intended to educate women about breast cancer and early detection tests. It is helping women be more aware and conscious of their breast health. 

A key goal of Breast Cancer Awareness Month is to promote mammograms as an important medical tool used to fight cancer. 

How Raleigh Celebrates Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Raleigh holds numerous events that celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness. Breast Cancer Awareness rallies, education sessions, fundraisers, walks, runs, and more are held to raise money for Breast Cancer Awareness. 

To Wrap It Up…

Breast Cancer is the second most common cancer in the U.S. Although deaths caused by breast cancer have declined over time it remains the second leading cause of cancer death amongst women. 

Getting checked early for Breast Cancer saves many lives, so women, protect your life and get checked!