Monday, October 4, 2010

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, other than skin cancers. Men can get breast cancer, too.

Breast cancer can start with no symptoms. Screening for breast cancer is important before you have symptoms. Screening can help doctors find and treast the cancer early. Earlier treatment is more likely to work.

What are the symptoms?
Awareness is the key! Learn what is normal for you, and see your doctor if:
  • There is change in how the breast or nipple feels or looks.
  • Lump or thickening in or near the breast or underarm area.
  • Nipple tenderness.
  • Change in size or shape of breast.
  • Nipple turned inward into the breast.
  • Skin of the breast or nipple may be red, swollen, puckering.
  • Fluid discharge from the nipple.
All women are at risk for breast cancer!

Make healthy lifestyle choices that may reduce your risk of breast cancer, such as maintain a healthy weight, exercise, limit alcohol intake and breastfeed if you can.

For more information, visit www.komen.org or call 1-877-go komen