October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, symbol of which is the pink ribbon. I couldn’t let the month go by without lending a voice to the cause that I know is a major issue for women and men around the world.
Even though breast cancer is the most popular form of cancer, there are other forms and there are things that can be done to minimize the associated risks;
BREAST CANCER
First off, you should know how your breasts normally look and feel and report any changes to your doctor right away.
- All women should be familiar with the known benefits, limitations, and potential harms linked to breast cancer screening;
- Women ages 40 to 44 should have the choice to start annual breast cancer screening with mammograms if they wish to do so.
- Women age 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year.
- Women 55 and older should switch to mammograms every 2 years, or can continue yearly screening.
- Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and is expected to live 10 more years or longer.
Some women – because of their family history, a genetic tendency, or certain other factors – should be screened with MRIs along with mammograms. Talk with your doctor about your risk for breast cancer and the best screening plan for you.
CERVICAL CANCER