Since 1985, October has been designated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It’s a time devoted to increasing awareness of a disease that affects approximately one in every eight women in the United States. However, the good news is that breast cancer is survivable if it is detected early enough. This is the reason why education and awareness are so vital. Here are seven ways you can help to spread breast cancer awareness.
1. Get Screened
Spread breast cancer awareness by talking to your female family members and friends about regular mammograms and the importance of checking their breasts for abnormalities. Lead by example – many clinics offer free mammograms during October. Click here to find low-cost or free breast cancer screenings near you.
2. Think Pink
A pink ribbon has become the international symbol for breast cancer, and wearing one is an effortless way to show your support. But don’t just stop at a ribbon – wear that pink outfit lurking in the back of your closet. Pink bracelets, pink hair, pink nails, pink makeup, pink bow on your poodle – pink anything! Encourage your family and friends to do the same.
3. Volunteer
There are many local and national organizations involved in breast cancer awareness. One prominent organization is the American Cancer Society (ACS), a nationwide voluntary health organization committed to fighting cancer. Established in 1913, the ACS has many volunteer programs and events, such as Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. Click here to find out how to get involved.
4. Raise Money
Research initiatives are vital in the quest to discover more effective prevention methods, treatment options, and, hopefully, an eventual cure for breast cancer. The National Foundation for Cancer Research (NFCR) is one organization that has been providing funds to cancer researchers for many years. To learn more about fundraising opportunities for these research initiatives, click here.
5. Take Part in a Walk or Run
The Susan G. Komen for the Cure organizes the Komen Race for the Cure, a series of 5K walks and runs around the country. For the more ambitious, there is also has the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure, a 60-mile, 3-day event. Proceeds from all of these events go toward breast cancer research. Click here to find a Komen Race for the Cure near you.
6. Breast Cancer Awareness: Keep Up-To-Date
The National Breast Cancer Foundation’s main website, www.nbcf.org, provides vital breast cancer information that is updated regularly. This site aims to provide a free and comprehensive guide to help women with breast cancer better understand their disease and what can be done to overcome it. Users can also watch a series of Beyond The Shock videos.
7. Help a Patient
If you have a loved one who has been diagnosed with breast cancer, there are many ways you can help. For example, you can help organize meal deliveries and transportation or set up an online network of helpers – other family members, friends, and coworkers.
- Caring Bridge is an easy-to-use platform that makes it easy to keep everyone updated about your loved one’s diagnosis.
Do You Need In-Home Help in Columbia, SC?
If you need in-home help caring for a loved one with breast cancer (or any other type of cancer), Caring Healthcare is here for you. We can assist with daily living tasks or in-home nursing care by licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and registered nurses (RNs). Whatever your in-home needs, we can provide it, so don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.
