The pink is back! It’s visible on shelves in stores, it graces football player’s helmets and it signifies one of the most important months of the year for women’s health – breast cancer awareness month.
Although the symbols of the month are all around us, it’s important to know life-saving information around this type of cancer, which affects 1 in 8 women. To help you with your understanding of the issue, we’ve done an article round-up of must-reads for anyone looking to learn more about breast cancer.
For Young Women
Young women and even girls can be diagnosed with breast cancer. The Young Survivor Coalition reports that an estimated 250,000 women diagnosed with breast cancer at age 40 or younger are living in the U.S. today. It is so crucial that young women are knowledgeable about the signs of breast cancer. One eye-opening article, “5 Things Young Women Must Know About Breast Cancer,” was written by Gina Shaw for a WebMD feature in 2010 and highlights the importance of women conducting regular self-exams, reaching out to other women in their age group and being selective in which doctor they choose.
For Men
While breast cancer in men is much less common than in women, men can get breast cancer and are more likely to dismiss their symptoms. A recent CBS article cites a Susan G. Komen for the Cure report saying age plays a role in male breast cancer, with the majority of cases diagnosed in men ages 65 to 75. An article entitled, “Men Suffer From Breast Cancer Too” by Chantell Black for TheGrio.com shares what it was like for one man to discover he had breast cancer. The article examines how the patient experienced the stigma of having a “girly cancer” and detailed the journey from his diagnosis to treatment.
For Survivors
According to the American Cancer Society, there are more than 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. The stories of the women and men who have fought cancer and experienced this disease firsthand are invaluable in educating us about the disease. Women’s Health Magazine is currently hosting a wealth of survivor stories in their online feature, “Surviving Breast Cancer.” The slideshow on Health.com entitled, “My Breast Cancer Diary in Pictures: How I Lost My Breast, Got a Haircut, and Won a Big Prize” offers a brave insight into the experience of photographer and survivor Adriene Hughes.
To learn more about breast cancer, visit Susan G. Komen for the Cure and The American Cancer Society.