Prevention and Early Detection
Key Breast Cancer Awareness Tips for Pink October
written by Be Holistically Healthy, MD
Dr Georgiana Farrugia Bonnici (Medical Doctor)
Pink October, also known as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, is a time when communities worldwide unite to illuminate the importance of breast health. This month is dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer, celebrating survivors, and advocating for early detection and prevention. In this article, we will share valuable tips to help you make a meaningful impact in the fight against breast cancer.
From understanding the risk factors to participating in awareness campaigns, these insights will empower you to be an advocate for yourself and others during this vital month of encouragement and support.
Breast cancer can affect both women and men. It is therefore important that everyone is well informed, taking advantage during Pink October, to keep raising awareness about this serious condition.
Who is at risk
It is known that women are more at risk of getting breast cancer, especially if they have never given birth, if they had their menstrual cycle before the age of 12 or a late menopause after age 55. Other risks for this condition include an increasing age, obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, exposure to radiation and also, various genetic factors.
Common Symptoms and signs
Symptoms related to breast cancer include the presence of lumps in various parts of the breasts or under the armpits, which may also feel hard, as well as changes in the colour, shape or composition of the breasts. One may also notice some discharges coming out of the nipples, unexplained weight loss or fatigue.
Regular checks
It is important that one self-checks the breasts regularly. Looking at a mirror is an easy way to spot any changes to your breasts shape, size and colour. Raise your arms and keep an eye out for any abnormalities. Next, lie down to feel your breast for any lumps. Use small circular motions to check the entire breast area.
Speak to a medical doctor upon noticing any changes, so that more tests such as a mammography or ultrasound can be carried out.
National breast screening
It would be very wise for all women to accept the national breast screening invitation. The aim of this campaign is to catch certain conditions of the breasts in an early state, and therefore one can also improve the prognosis.
Healthy lifestyle
One should also seek to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritious food, increasing physical exercise, losing excess weight, not smoking and reducing alcohol consumption.
Citadel Health Insurance
For further information the health insurance policies by Citadel Insurance will provide you with the essential support.
Visit https://www.citadelplc.com/en/health-insurance
Citadel Insurance p.l.c. is authorised under the Insurance Business Act, Cap 403 and is regulated by the MFSA.
