Breast Cancer Awareness

Savannah Kerns

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National Breast Cancer Awareness month was throughout October; however, we all must realize that one month of awareness will not help us irradicate this disease. NBCA is a time to think about regular screening that can help find breast cancer early, especially in women who don't have any symptoms. The earlier it is found the more options and treatments that are available and the more successful those treatments will be. For many women, insurance pays for routine screenings. NBCA is observed every October and was created in 1985, featuring its pink theme, and there are multiple campaigns and programs highlighted throughout the month organized by groups ranging from breast cancer organizations to local community organizations. Its goal is to support people diagnosed with breast cancer or metastatic breast cancer, educate people about the facts of the risks, and stress the importance of regular screenings from age 40 or appropriate age. October 13 is Breast Cancer/Metastatic Breast Cancer day, and October 17-October 23 is Men's Breast Cancer Awareness week. In Tennessee, we have the Tennessee Breast Cancer Coalition, which was established in 1995, it is an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Tennessee Breast Cancer Coalition provides individuals financial assistance to breast cancer patients through the Emergency Access Fund (EAF). It pays for mortgages, medical bills, utilities, and insurance premiums. Since it was created it has given over $1,334,186.82 to 1,630 breast cancer patients and their families. Their mission is to be the foremost advocate and provider for Tennesseans facing breast cancer through individual assistance and education. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death in women and nearly 6,000 Tennessee women will be diagnosed with an invasive breast. Although it is rare, men get breast cancer too. In 2022, an estimated 2,720 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the United States and approximately 530 men will die from it. October has passed, but if you have a family history of breast cancer or are over 40 here are some things you can do: if you haven't already made an appointment just to get regular screening, to be safe, schedule it and encourage your friends and family to do the same. Learn about Buddy Check and keep up with it monthly. Educate yourself about breast cancer from podcasts and videos.