By JENNIFER MILEWSKI
Guest Columnist
We find ourselves at the first of October – the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Every two minutes, one case of breast cancer is diagnosed in the United States. And in 2021, more than 281,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women, and more than 2,600 cases in men in the United States.
No one wants to be a statistic. Fortunately, there are things that women, and men, can begin doing today, to be preventative against breast cancer.
In the wake of COVID-19, a seemingly never-ending pandemic, many women have moved away from their routine screenings and mammograms. Without the benefit of early detection and preventative strategies, we may see an increase in diagnosis. When found early, breast cancer may still be small and has a smaller chance of spreading. Regular screenings are the most reliable way to be preventative.
Please use October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, as a time to get back on track and get your regular check-ups scheduled.
In addition to placing a priority on self-care, check on your loved ones, too. Remind them to schedule their regular doctor appointments and get screened. If you find a friend or family member has been diagnosed with breast cancer, offer help with driving to doctor appointments, making healthy meals, or just listen. Checking in and asking how you can be there for your loved one can be emotionally impactful and supportive.
Lastly, rally behind bringing awareness, research, and education to breast cancer. This month, the Susan G. Komen Foundation will host the MORE THAN PINK Walk. It’s a day where we can put aside everything else in our lives and share our stories, our laughter, and our hopes – all while raising money that saves lives while we celebrate survivors, those living with breast cancer, and honor loved ones lost.
To register and learn more about the MORE THAN PINK Walk on Oct. 16 at Celebration Plaza at White River State Park, visit komencentralindiana.org.
Jennifer Milewski serves as the State Executive Director for Indiana & Kentucky for the Susan G. Komen breast cancer organization.