America’s Most Wanted- Breast Cancer Awareness Month In 2013, an estimated 1,660,290 people will be diagnosed with cancer. That is more than the entire population of Philadelphia. Of those diagnosed, 232,340 are projected to be diagnosed with breast cancer. The chances of women having invasive breast cancer in their lifetime approximately 1 in 8. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. NBCAM promotes awareness and empowerment, not just throughout the month, but every day of the year so that one day the numbers of diagnosis and death may decrease. Breast cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer behind skin cancer. Education and prevention are the key to not being part of the statistic. With early detection, the 5-year survival rate is 98%. If you could stop breast cancer before it progressed, would you? By educating yourself on the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, you can save yourself (or a loved one) from having to fight a treacherous and scary battle. Although it is more common in women, men can also develop breast cancer. Breast cancer is an invasive disease where malignant cells can attack and invade the tissue in the breast, and surrounding tissue. If you notice anything unusual, do not panic or self-diagnose. A lump in the breast does not automatically mean cancer. However, do not hesitate to have it, or any other changes, investigated by a healthcare professional. Symptoms of breast cancer may include: Lump or thickening of tissue in or around breast or underarm area Nipple tenderness Persistent breast pain, discomfort or unusual tenderness Change in skin texture or change in pore visibility (similar to orange peel texture) Nipple discharge (clear or bloody) Performing self-breast exams regularly and paying special attention to any changes can help you detect breast cancer right away. Getting a mammogram is also essential to early detection as it can see a breast lump even before it can be felt. Women over 40 should get an exam every 1-2 years and women under 40 should consult a healthcare professional to determine whether a mammogram is needed. If the mammogram results are abnormal, additional tests can be conducted. Creating an early detection plan and knowing the signs of breast cancer can save your life. Other ways to reduce your risk are: Maintaining a healthy weight Staying physically active Eating a balanced diet with vegetables and fruits Do not smoke Limiting alcohol consumption Conducting monthly breast self-exams Scheduling clinical breast exams Getting a mammogram if needed Reduce others’ risks by educating them about awareness and prevention. For more information check out the resources and facts provided by National Breast Cancer Foundation. Twitter: October is not just the month for orange and black. It’s the month of pink. #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth #SavetheTatas http://bit.ly/1a80ia5 Think Pink! Cute ways to wear your pink in support for Breast Cancer Awareness. #Accessorize #NBCAM http://bit.ly/17jXZie *Instagram/Pinterest Opportunity* (Collage/Photos showing different ways to wear pink throughout the month- encourage followers to share and #NBCAM etc.) MYTH: Men cannot get breast cancer. Find out more! #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth #BCAM #MensHealth http://bit.ly/cNEBuQ 300,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013. Don’t be part of the statistic #BreastCancer #Prevention http://1.usa.gov/EqzSO It’s the month of The Big “C.” Breast Cancer #GetInformed. Don’t let your loved ones fall prey to cancer #Prevention http://bit.ly/9okFsb Think you know about breast cancer? Test your knowledge with the Top 10 #Myths of Breast Cancer. #Truths #NBCAM http://abt.cm/cbFLdx Save a life, 39,840 women will die of breast cancer in 2013. Stay informed about the signs and inform others #NBCAM http://bit.ly/18A634H How do you show support for Breast Cancer Survivors? http://bit.ly/17k2Joi Tweet Hashtag #NBCAM for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month! *(Also a good Instagram/Pinterest Opportunity- with interaction)* Know an inspirational breast cancer survivor? Share their story in 140 characters with hashtag #NBCAM for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month The Breast Cancer #Myths and #Facts, do you know the difference? http://bit.ly/1a85wCw Procrastination is Cancer’s “Breast” friend. Get checked today! #NBCAM http://bit.ly/1a85wCw