Did You Know About Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
As September rolls into October, attention is once again drawn to the small pink ribbons adorning countertops, bumpers, and windows. Breast Cancer Awareness month is a time for the nation to recognize the importance of early detection and research. Boston HVAC experts are joining the chorus of voices to bring awareness to the fight against breast cancer.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast cancer awareness month is an international health campaign created to bring awareness to the importance of having annual mammograms performed. In the United States, October is referred to as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month or NBCAM.
Breast Cancer Awareness month was brought to the mainstream in 1985 by the combined efforts of the American Cancer Society and Imperial Chemical Industries. The main focus was to spread awareness regarding the effectiveness of mammography, and the life-saving benefits of early detection.
Along with early detection, October serves as a time to promote the many benefits of continued research. Prominent breast cancer charities use NBCAM as a time to spread consciousness about the critical research done in regards to the cause, prevention, diagnosis, and cure of breast cancer.
Donning a Pink Ribbon
The pink ribbon has become the international symbol of Breast Cancer Awareness. The small pink ribbon worn as a pin, on a tee-shirt, or as a bumper sticker, is a sign of support for those who battle the disease. It also supports the need for further research into treatments and cures.The ribbon itself originated in the early 1990s by a woman named Charlotte Haley. Coming from a family of women who have battled breast cancer, Haley created a peach ribbon along with a card that urged people to wear the ribbon in hopes of reaching legislators regarding the insufficient amount of funds available for breast cancer research.
Before long, however, Self magazine (among others) released their own version of the ribbon in soft pink. This is the highly recognized symbol used today to promote awareness, raise funds, and support the many individuals battling breast cancer.
Show Your Support on October 18th
For the entire month of October, charities, research facilities, businesses, and individuals alike will promote Breast Cancer Awareness by wearing it pink. On October 18th, however, people celebrate National Mammography Day.
According to the World Health Organization, there are 1.38 million new cases of breast cancer per year. Unfortunately, research is still lacking on the cause of breast cancer making mammograms, and the early detection they provide, essential for increasing the survivor rate.
Detected early, breast cancer is not only treatable but curable. Breast Cancer Awareness activists use the month of October, and Friday the 18th in particular, to gain the public’s attention about the importance of early detection.
On an international level, October 18th is also a time to gain donations to further fund the needs of mammography screening in populations where costly medical procedures are not feasible.
Know When to Get Checked by a Medical Professional
Cancer research has shown that the earlier breast cancer is detected, the better the chances of making a full recovery. It is recommended that annual mammograms start between the ages of 45 to 50. If there is a family history of breast cancer, mammograms could be required even earlier. It is best to consult a medical professional.
While annual mammograms are important, it is just as crucial to have some knowledge of symptoms that could indicate a potential risk. These symptoms include:
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Changes to the breast tissue such as redness or swelling. - A noticeable change in size or shape of breasts and nipples.
- Besides breast milk, any discharge from the nipples.
- Lumps within the breast tissue.
- Breast tissue is irritated or itchy.
- Breast tissue that changes color or feeling (hardness or warmness).
- Pitting of the breast (where the tissue looks like the skin of an orange).
- Any part of the breast or nipple that is painful.
Changes to the breast tissue such as redness or swelling.If you have noticed any of these changes, it is important to consult a medical professional. It is also important to remember that these symptoms do not always point to breast cancer, and can have benign origins. Regardless, make an appointment with your doctor to set an appointment for a mammogram.
Atlantic Heating & Air Conditioning Supports National Breast Cancer Awareness
Atlantic Heating & Air Conditioning has been the local HVAC experts in Boston since 1962. Each customer is given peace of mind by going above and beyond the normal call of duty. An experienced team of professionals is ready to take on any job whether big or small. Originally a family-owned business, Atlantic Heating & Air Conditioning maintains its core values and fully supports October’s Breast Cancer Awareness goals.
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