LeaseTeam recognized Breast Cancer Awareness Month and showed their support this Thursday, October 27th, by wearing pink. Take a quick look at why this month is so important:
The Facts
The term “breast cancer” refers to a malignant tumor that has developed from an uncontrolled growth of cells. Usually breast cancer begins in the cells of the lobules or the ducts. As the cells multiply, they spread to the underarm lymph nodes which create passage ways to other parts of the body.
The Stats
- 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime
- Around 300,000 new cases are diagnosed every year
- In 2016, there are more than 2.8 million women with a history of breast cancer in the U.S.
- 85% of breast cancers occur in women who have family history of breast cancer
- 2,600 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in men in 2016
- Death rates have dropped dramatically since 1989, credited to earlier catches from more frequent screenings
The Causes
There are numerous aspects that factor into getting breast cancer:
Age, family history, genetics, radiation exposure, race, weight, hormone replacement therapy, alcohol consumption, unhealthy eating and drinking habits, smoking, certain chemical exposure, etc.
Prevention
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle in general, eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, limiting alcohol, and exercising regularly, are key in preventing breast cancer as well as numerous other diseases. However, many other factors cannot be avoided which is why a clinical breast exam is recommended every one to three years starting at age 20 and every year starting at age 40, and even more often if it is in your family history.
How to Help
Most everyone either is or knows someone who has been affected by breast cancer. Whether it be a family member, friend, or coworker, finding a way to support them can be more difficult than it sounds. Fortunately, there are many resources for those looking for help. Here are just a few:
https://www.lbbc.org/how-you-can-help
