breast cancer awareness month Several of the major breast cancer organizations team up annually in the month of October to raise awareness of the disease Their goals are to educate… How to detect it early What causes it How it’s diagnosed How to treat it They also provide support to survivors breast cancer awareness month

“Breast cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the breast. It is considered a heterogeneous disease—differing by individual, age group, and even the kinds of cells within the tumors themselves.” (www.nationalbreastcancer.org) It affects both women and men About 200,000 women and 1,700 men are diagnosed annually Of those, 40,000 women and 450 men will die What is breast cancer?

Risk Factors Women over 65 Obese or overweight No or little physical activity Diet high in saturated fat More than two alcoholic drinks per day Family history, esp. mother or sister Having your first child at an older age or not having given birth Taking birth control pills for over 10 years if under age 35 Risk Factors

Early Detection Age 20+: Breast self- exams, notice any changes 20-39: Clinical breast exams every three years 40-49: baseline mammogram then every 1- 2 years based on findings, yearly clinical breast exams 50+: yearly mammogram A change in how the breast or nipple looks A change in how the breast or nipple feels Nipple discharge Signs and symptoms

Host a fundraiser to help provide mammograms for women in need Attend a local charity walk or event: Making Strides Against Breast Cancer in Indianapolis is on October 20, 2012 at White River State Park Help prevent: Always maintain a healthy weight Get at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity physical activity weekly Limit alcohol intake to less than 1 drink each day for women, 2 drinks for men What can you do?

National breast cancer awareness month collaborating organizations American Cancer Society American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists American College of Radiology The American Society of Clinical Oncology The American Medical Women’s Association AstraZeneca HealthCare Foundation CancerCare Men Against Breast Cancer National Medical Association The Oncology Nursing Society Prevent Cancer Foundation Susan G. Komen for the Cure Y-ME National breast cancer awareness month collaborating organizations

Sources www.acs.org www.cancertypes.us www.nationalbreastcancer.org www.nbcam.org