October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in American women. It is estimated that in 2022, approximately 30% of all new female cancer diagnoses will be breast cancer. 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. Although rare, men can develop breast cancer too. 
In recent years we have seen a gradual reduction in female breast cancer incidence rates among women 50 and older. This may coincide with the decline of prescriptive hormone replacement therapy after menopause. Death rates have also declined due to better screening, early detection, increased awareness, and improved treatment options.

What is Breast Cancer?

Cancer begins in the cells, the basic building blocks that makeup tissue. Tissue is found in the breast and other parts of the body. When there are various issues during the process of cell growth, the cells can build up and form a mass of tissue called a tumor.

When these tumors start to form in the breast, this is what we call breast cancer. These cells can spread by breaking away from the original tumor and entering blood vessels or lymph vessels. These vessels branch out into the tissues throughout the body, which can cause cancer to spread or metastasize. 

Early Detection of Breast Cancer

According to the American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is detected early and in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%. Early detection includes monthly breast self-exams and scheduling regular clinical breast exams and mammograms.

In October, We Wear Pink

In October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we wear pink to honor survivors, remember those lost to the disease, raise awareness, and support the progress we are making together to defeat Breast Cancer. Pink was chosen not only for its association with femininity but because it is thought to be life-affirming, calming, playful, quieting, and stress relieving. Ironically Breast Cancer is the exact opposite of this; pink represents fear of breast cancer yet hope for the future.

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Creek Fit will be hosting two (2) special classes this month at the Recreation Complex, 4455 Sol Press Boulevard:

• Thursday, October 13th, Think Pink Yoga with Marcia from 9:00am-10:00 am
• Saturday, October 22nd, Lifting for Her with Kelvin at 8:05 am-9:00am

 For more information on Breast Cancer and Breast Cancer Awareness, see: 

• National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/
• American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org/

• Susan G. Komen https://www.komen.org/