Breast Cancer Awareness Month, marked every October in most countries around the world, aims to raise awareness, early diagnosis, and treatment as well as pain management. Breast cancer is a condition that involves malignant cells (cancer) in the breast tissues. Globally, breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women. We are doing our part by sharing some important information, some helpful tips & resources. We encourage all of our Savage Baes to get tested early, self examine & make healthier lifestyle choices!

   If detected at an early stage:

"When breast cancer is detected early, and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%. Early detection includes doing monthly breast self-exams, and scheduling regular clinical breast exams and mammograms. Women under the age of 40 should be self-examined on a monthly basis."

There is still inadequate awareness of the causes of breast cancer, but early detection of the disease remains a crucial factor in the management of breast cancer. There is a fair possibility that breast cancer will be cured when breast cancer is diagnosed early. But in late diagnoses, it is very difficult to handle the pain and treatment.   

Breast cancer, except skin cancers, is the most common cancer in American women, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). In U.S. the average amount of women contracting breast cancer is around 12 percent or a 1 in 8 chance. Around 2.6 percent is the chance that a woman will die from breast cancer.

Signs of Breast Cancer

• Swelling of all or part of the breast or thickening of the breast
• Lump in the underarm or breast area
• Skin irritation or redness or discoloration around the breast area or nipples
• Localized, chronic pain in the breast
• Any alteration of the breast's size or shape
• Discharge of the nipple (other than breast milk)

Breast Cancer Prevention

      Lifestyle choices can be a very huge contributing factor in breast cancer awareness. If you take care of yourself and make good healthy choices than there is a chance that you can prevent this thing from happening. Here is a list of things you can do to make sure of that;

 Alcohol: Moderation is key limit your alcohol consumption. Alcohol can increase the risk of breast cancer. But drinking one glass of wine a day can offer heart-health benefits.

Physical Activity: Increase exercise and daily activities, keep your body moving on a regular basis. Try to workout at least three hours per week, or about 30 minutes a day, women can begin to reduce or lower the risk of breast cancer. And of course eat more whole foods such as fruits and veggies.

Self- Exam: "Place a pillow under your right shoulder and your right arm behind your head. Using your left hand, move the pads of your fingers around your right breast gently covering the entire breast area and armpit. Use light, medium, and firm pressure. Squeeze the nipple; check for discharge and lumps." https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-self-exam

Be diligent in practicing some of these breast cancer prevention tips. Consult your doctor if you find any changes in your breasts, such as a new lump or changes in the skin.

We hope you have found this post on Be Bold Be Fierce The Blog helpful in some way, if you did please make sure to share this information with another #savagebae or friend or family member!

Resources -----------

https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/nbccedp/index.htm

https://www.panfoundation.org/get-help/apply-for-assistance/

https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-self-exam

https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/about-breast-cancer/early-detection/breast-cancer-resources