On Wednesdays We Wear Pink

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Here at Skin Essentials each of us have had family members, friends, and clients who have been diagonosed with breast cancer. Most likely you know someone who has been diagnosed as well. According to bcrfcure.org (breast cancer research foundation) it is the most common cancer in women worldwide and the second most common cancer overall.

About 1 in 8 U.S. women (about 12%) will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime.

• Besides skin cancer, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American women. Just under 30% of cancers in women are breast cancers. In 2014, there were more than 2.8 million women with a history of breast cancer in the U.S. This includes women currently being treated and women who have finished treatment.

• A woman’s risk of breast cancer approximately doubles if she has a first-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. About 15% of women who get breast cancer have a family member diagnosed with it.

*from www.breastcancer.org

Early detection is key in fighting breast cancer. I know we have all heard what we should be doing, but how many of us are actualy taking the steps.

• A monthly breast self exam starting at age 20. Examining yourself on a regular basis lets you become familiar with your breasts so you will notice any changes that may occur.

• Women age 40 or older who are at average risk of breast cancer should have a mammogram once a year.