1. 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

2. “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.” (
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?

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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?

6. 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

7. Sources