Saturday, October 6, 2012

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month


October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is an annual campaign to increase awareness of the disease. While most people are aware of breast cancer, many forget to take the steps to have a plan to detect the disease in its early stages and encourage others to do the same. We have made a lot of progress but still have a long way to go and need your help!

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.  It is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women, and remains the second leading cause of death among women.  The good news is that death rates for this disease have been on the decline since 1990, partially due to better screening and detection techniques, increased awareness and improved treatment options.  For every women, especially those over 40 years of age – it is crucial to practice regular breast self -exams and schedule annual mammograms.  Breast cancer resources are available at:

  • American Cancer Society,  cancer.org:  (800-227-2345)
  • National Cancer Institute, cancer.gov: 800-4-cancer: (800-422-6237)
  •  Susan G. Komen for the Cure, komen.org;:  877-GO-KOMEN (877-466-6636
  • Breastcancer.org
The Healthy Hermosa Coalition is hosting a Breast Cancer Awareness Workshop on October 11, 2012.  For more information contact Herminia Vanna at 312-747-8812 or rsvp to attend the workshop and learn about resources in the Hermosa area. 

 

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