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Breast Cancer Awareness Month - October 2024
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a global health initiative celebrated every October. Its purpose is to raise awareness about screening and prevention for a disease that impacts 2.3 million women worldwide.
Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent cancer among women and ranks as the most common cancer overall. While it predominantly affects women, men can also develop breast tissue that becomes malignant. Male breast cancers are uncommon, accounting for only 1% of all cases, yet men are frequently diagnosed at more advanced stages. This delay in seeking medical care often leads to later presentations and poorer outcomes.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month – October 2024
Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer, including:
- Gender: Being female is the primary risk factor.
- Age: The risk increases with age, particularly for women over 55.
- Family History: Genetics can play a role; individuals with a family history of breast cancer may have mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2.
- Personal History: Those who have had breast cancer or certain benign breast conditions are at a higher risk.
- Lifestyle Factors: Factors such as obesity, lack of physical activity, alcohol consumption, and smoking can contribute to the risk.
Early detection through regular screening improves outcomes significantly. The prognosis for breast cancer varies significantly depending on several factors, including the type of cancer, the stage at diagnosis, and how well the cancer responds to treatment.
Prevention and Awareness
While it’s not possible to prevent breast cancer entirely, certain lifestyle choices can help reduce risk, such as maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, moderating alcohol intake, and avoiding tobacco. Organizations worldwide promote Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, highlighting the importance of early detection, education, and support resources for those affected by the disease.
Further reading
- Breast Cancer Screening and Prevention. Farkas AH, Nattinger AB. Ann Intern Med. 2023 Nov;176(11):ITC161-ITC176. doi: 10.7326/AITC202311210. Epub 2023 Nov 14. PMID: 37956433.
- Breast cancer highlights from 2023: Knowledge to guide practice and future research. Cardoso MJ, Poortmans P, Senkus E, Gentilini OD, Houssami N.Breast. 2024 Apr;74:103674. doi: 10.1016/j.breast.2024.103674. Epub 2024 Jan 27. PMID: 38340683; PMCID: PMC10869942.
- Male Breast Cancer (MBC) – A Review. AlFehaid M. Pol Przegl Chir. 2023 Dec 30;95(6):24-30. PMID: 38058163.
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