The Importance of Breast Cancer Awareness

As October 2020 comes to a close, this marks the end of breast cancer awareness month.

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women worldwide. While more commonly associated with women, it can also affect men, given the presence of breast tissue in both sexes. Diagnosis rates vary, but it is something to which both biological sexes are potentially vulnerable. It is imperative, therefore, that everyone understands how to conduct regular self-checks to help increase the detection of potential concerns. Early detection of cancer can help increase options for treatment, and subsequently improve long-term survival rates.

Conducting self-checks for breast cancer is important for everyone. Self-checks for women are recommended, in addition to regular screening. Great resources from the CDC help to explain breast cancer in men, and symptoms to look out for.

Early detection can be enhanced via conducting regular self-checks, as well as regular examinations by a medical professional. The frequency of recommended checkups may vary from person to person, based upon a number of factors. These include personal and family history of cancer, genetic predisposition, and other considerations. For example, for those persons who are known to have BRCA gene variants, it is often recommended that they conduct more frequent checkups to monitor breast, ovarian, and other health.

Although breast cancer awareness month only comes one month a year, its mission is one worth carrying out year-round. Raising awareness — to help improve detection, increase access to treatment, to improve support for patients and caregivers — each of these initiatives requires consistent attention.