October is the month when all the pretty pink merchandise comes out. It’s there for two reasons; 1) to donate to the Susan G. Komen Foundation and 2) to remind us that breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in this country (other than skin cancer). Each year, more than 211,000 American women learn they have this disease (according to the National Cancer Institute). To help you stay informed, I have gathered a small list of local and national resources on the subject.
Broward Family Magazine’s October Issue (pages 10-13) lists local businesses commited to the cause from special events to specially designed merchandise. The article also covers some recommendations for mammography screening and the benefits of digital mammography.
On Thursday, October 26th, Memorial Healthcare System (in Hollywood, Florida) will be holding a free lecture featuring the renowned journalist, producer, and author Linda Ellerbee on Surviving Breast Cancer. This event has limited seating and reservations are required. Please visit Memorial’s site for further details.
Breastcancer.org covers everything from lowering your risk to recovery & renewal.
Telephone (1-800-4-CANCER): Information Specialists at NCI’s Cancer Information Service can answer your questions about cancer. They can also send NCI booklets, fact sheets, and other materials.
Internet (http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/breast): You can use NCI’s Web site to find a wide range of up-to-date information, ask questions online, and get help right away from Information Specialists through LiveHelp.
I know all this information can be daunting, but the point is this; Stay informed, talk to your health care professional, and get your mammogram. Don’t wait!