Every October, communities across the Inland Empire and throughout the nation turn pink in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to education, early detection, support for patients and survivors, and remembering those whose lives have been lost to the disease.
Behind the pink ribbons is an important message: knowing your risk and keeping up with recommended breast cancer screenings can save lives.
Breast cancer remains one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among women in the United States. While receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can be frightening, advances in screening, diagnosis and treatment have given patients more options and improved outcomes.
Early detection continues to be one of the most important tools.
A mammogram can sometimes detect breast cancer before a lump can be felt or other symptoms appear. Women are encouraged to speak with their healthcare providers about when mammography should begin and how often they should be screened based on their age, family history and individual risk factors.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is also an opportunity to become familiar with changes in the breast that should not be ignored.
A new lump or thickening, changes in breast size or shape, skin dimpling, nipple changes, unusual discharge, persistent breast or nipple pain, or swelling should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Many breast changes are not cancer, but unusual or persistent symptoms deserve medical attention.
Family history can also matter. People with a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer may benefit from discussing genetic counseling or additional screening with their healthcare provider.
Awareness, however, goes beyond medical appointments.
Across San Bernardino and Riverside counties, families, healthcare organizations, businesses and community groups recognize October with educational programs, fundraising walks, survivor celebrations and other events. These activities remind those facing breast cancer that they do not have to face the journey alone.
Friends and family members can make a meaningful difference by offering transportation to appointments, preparing meals, helping with household responsibilities or simply being available to listen.
October is also a time to honor survivors and remember the women and men whose lives have been affected by breast cancer.
The familiar pink ribbon represents more than awareness. For many families, it represents courage, hope, remembrance and the determination to continue improving prevention, detection and treatment.
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, residents are encouraged to use the conversation as a reminder to take action. Learn about your family history, talk with your healthcare provider about your personal risk and determine which screening schedule is appropriate for you.
And perhaps most importantly, remind the people you love to do the same.
One conversation, one appointment or one mammogram could make a life-saving difference.