During the month of October, all around the world, people come together to show their support for those who have been impacted by breast cancer. Not only do they look towards those who have fought the battle against this form of cancer, but those who are currently fighting it too.
The nature of Breast Cancer Awareness Month is also to raise awareness about breast cancer, how you can spot it and what can be done to treat this form of cancer.
Breast cancer facts
It is thought that here in the UK, around 55,000 women and 370 men are diagnosed with breast cancer every single year. This equates to 1 in 7 UK females. Of those who are diagnosed with breast cancer, as many as 76% will survive for more than ten years. This figure can only be achieved thanks to the advancement in medical treatment and the speed of diagnoses of some more aggressive forms of breast cancer.
The main warning signs of breast cancer
To keep in fitting with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we have decided to take a look at some of the main warning signs of breast cancer. Whilst it is essential to highlight that having any of these signs does not necessarily mean that you have breast cancer, it is also equally as vital that you go and get them checked out at the doctors. This is because early diagnosis is key in fighting breast cancer and boosting your survival rate.
The main signs that breast cancer may be developing are:
Noticing a new lump in either your breast or your armpit
Any parts of your breast become swollen or thicker than they used to be
Dimpling on the skin of the breast or irritation that doesn’t seem to be anywhere else on the body
Flaky skin and redness, particularly when it is around the nipple area
Pain in the nipple area or pulling of the skin in this area
It is worthwhile repeating that these signs are not always breast cancer. However, they are definitely something that you need to make sure that you have checked out to ensure that this is not the cause and to seek medical treatment as early as you can.
What you can do during Breast Cancer Awareness Month
We all have a part to play in raising money to support those living with or impacted by breast cancer. Throughout the entire year, there are lots of things that we can all do to help to raise money; however, during October, there are more great options for you to consider buying (and, in turn, donating to the cause).
You can buy silicone bracelets, t-shirts, face masks and even specially created HOPE kits, all of which will raise money to support those who need the help. Be that right now or in the future.
Of course, the main purpose of Breast Cancer Awareness month is to raise awareness of breast cancer and ensure that we all recognise the symptoms and signs to look out for.
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