Charleston Takes Steps for Breast Cancer Awareness This October
As we step into October, the vibrant city of Charleston has a special spotlight on a cause that hits home for many: breast cancer awareness. It’s more than just a month on the calendar; it’s a time to reflect, educate, and take action against a disease that is all too familiar to many of our friends and loved ones.
What’s the Latest on Breast Cancer Statistics?
According to predictions from the American Cancer Society, approximately 50,000 women are expected to lose their lives to breast cancer in 2024. Such numbers can be overwhelming. But here’s the silver lining—doctors and health professionals emphasize that there’s a real chance to change these statistics if action is taken early. One in eight women in the U.S. will face a breast cancer diagnosis in their lifetime, making it a crucial public health issue everyone should understand.
Early Detection: The Key to Survival
Experts at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) are passionate about the importance of early detection when it comes to breast cancer. Dr. Brielle Paolini, a renowned expert in breast imaging and radiology, states that mammograms and regular breast screenings are essential tools. She mentioned, “We’ve had a 40% reduction in breast cancer rates since the 1990s due to frequent breast screenings.” That’s a powerful statistic that shows how essential these screenings can be.
Mammograms are non-invasive procedures that utilize low-energy x-rays to provide clear images of the breast tissue, allowing doctors to detect any abnormalities long before symptoms might appear. Dr. Paolini reassured women that while some experience discomfort during the procedure, the discomfort **quickly fades away** compared to the potential benefits of early detection. She emphasized, “What’s so powerful about mammography is that it helps us find breast cancer long before you would ever feel it or have symptoms.”
Understanding Your Risk
But don’t think it’s just women over 40 who need to pay attention. Dr. Paolini urges women, especially those under 40, to start their breast care journey earlier. Knowing your body is the first step. “Women should be familiar with how their breasts normally feel. This knowledge is vital in identifying any changes that need immediate evaluation,” she said.
Regular check-ups are another significant recommendation. Having a doctor who performs breast exams annually helps catch any potential issues early on. Moreover, discussing personal risk factors— family history, breast density, and hormone exposure—with your physician can pave the way for a better understanding of your health.
Knowledge is Power
As Dr. Paolini wisely stated, “Cancer will be there whether we look or not. I always recommend us take a look because then we can take action and really try to treat it.” The earlier breast cancer is found, the more options there are for treatment. With that in mind, this October is the perfect time to prioritize your health.
Take Action This October
Health experts encourage everyone to use Breast Cancer Education and Awareness Month as a valuable reminder to schedule that mammogram you’ve been putting off. Better yet, MUSC now offers mammogram appointments on Saturdays, making it easier to fit this important health step into your busy life.
So why wait? Take a moment to reach out to your healthcare provider for an appointment or a risk assessment. Whether for yourself or someone you love, prioritizing breast health is a beautiful way to honor those impacted by breast cancer.
In said, every contribution to awareness counts. Whether through a chat at a coffee shop, sharing knowledge online, or scheduling a mammogram, we can all play a role in supporting breast cancer research and education. Let’s make this October a month filled with hope, knowledge, and action!
