Breast Cancer Awareness Month
BY ZAARA KHAYER
Disclaimer! The content in this article discusses sensitive topics related to breast cancer, which may be distressing for some readers. If you or someone you know needs support or assistance, please click here to access Breast Cancer Network Australia's helpline for immediate help and guidance. Your well-being is important, and there are resources available to provide the support you need.
It's October, which means it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This month holds significant importance, adorned in vibrant shades of pink, as we come together to shed light on this disease. Breast cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, with over 20,000 Australians expected to be diagnosed this year alone. That equates to 57 Australians every day. Sadly, over 3,200 Australians will lose their lives to breast cancer this year, translating to 9 people losing their lives to the disease every day. But this month is a beacon of hope as well for us.
There may be some people going through this or know someone experiencing this in the UniHigh community. Here are 10 ways you can get involved during Breast Cancer Awareness Month:
Wear pink. A pink ribbon is an international symbol for breast cancer. Wearing the emblematic pink ribbon - or pink clothes - is an easy way to show your support for those who are fighting breast cancer. Pick out your favorite pink outfit and encourage your friends and family to do the same. Pink nails, pink hair, pink makeup, pink bracelets – pink anything. Be creative in “thinking pink” this October.
Educate yourself. Sharing facts with others is crucial in spreading awareness about breast cancer. Learn about its risk factors, early detection, treatment options, and available support services. Share statistics and encourage your friends and family to get a mammogram. Disseminate this vital information through social media, blogs, or community events.
Volunteer. There are numerous local and national volunteer organizations that raise awareness for breast cancer. Many people volunteer for Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA), a nationwide voluntary health organization committed to supporting Australians with breast cancer. Click here to learn more about how you can get involved.
Participate in fundraisers. Joining or organizing fundraising events such as walks, runs, or charity drives dedicated to breast cancer research and support is a meaningful way to contribute. Some events to consider include PLAY4BCNA Pink Sports Day and Pink Lady events. Encourage friends and family to attend these events to show their support.
Promote a healthy lifestyle. Encourage healthy habits such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, limited alcohol consumption, and avoiding tobacco. A healthy lifestyle can lower the risk of developing breast cancer.
Support survivors and patients. Reach out to breast cancer survivors and patients in your community or network. Offer emotional support, companionship, or assistance with daily activities to help alleviate the challenges they may face during their journey.
Encourage regular screenings. Advocate for regular breast cancer screenings, including mammograms and clinical breast exams, for both women and men. Stress the importance of early detection and its role in improving outcomes.
Fund research initiatives. Research initiatives are vital in the quest to find a cure for breast cancer. They can also help us discover more effective prevention methods and treatment options.
Share personal stories. Encourage breast cancer survivors or those affected by the disease to share their stories to inspire and educate others
Donate. Contribute financially to reputable breast cancer charities, research foundations, or patient support organizations. It's the quickest and easiest way to make a meaningful impact.
These 10 ways are just the tip of the iceberg. There are countless ways for you to show your support. And remember, doing all this shows hope and is important to connect us all and unite as a community. Early detection saves lives.