Don pink this month for breast cancer support
We Say
Although orange is a prominent October color, from pumpkins, to mums, to falling leaves, there’s another color that takes precedence for many. That’s pink, in homage to Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
You would be hardpressed to find someone who has not been directly or at least indirectly impacted by a breast cancer diagnosis. Whether it’s a mother or a sister, a neighbor or a family friend, we probably all know someone who heard the dreaded words – you have breast cancer.
This is a good time to tune into the facts about breast cancer and either take steps yourself, or encourage others to take steps, to keep an eye out for breast cancer and understand the importance of early detection and treatment.
October was first dedicated for breast cancer awareness in 1985, almost 40 years ago.
Despite the time that has passed since then, the need to spread awareness still remains. The annual month-long awareness campaign continues as a call to be tuned into one’s breast health, to strengthen support for those battling this cancer and to share information about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of the cancer that has impacted so many.
According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, one in eight U.S. women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and nearly 3,000 men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. “But there is hope,” encourages the NBCF. “When caught in its earliest, localized stages, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99 percent. Advances in early detection and treatment methods have significantly increased breast cancer survival rates in recent years, and there are currently over 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States.”
Wearing pink–ribbons, specifically, but any pink clothing more generally – to show support dates back to the early ’90s. According to the NBCF, “since 1992, breast cancer organizations across the globe have created and trademarked their own pink ribbons to honor their work and the people they serve.”
It’s such a simple way to stand in solidarity with a woman – or man – in a challenging time. It helps to unify us and to show empathy and caring. So, add a little pink to your wardrobe this month.
Since early detection is so key to successful treatment of breast cancer, we join the voices urging proactive self-exams and mammograms.
If you think you can’t afford a mammogram or other scan, Russellville Hospital might be able to help. A special fund at the hospital is available to women who might find it challenging to pay for such scans.
Check out the annual Walk to Wellness, taking place this Saturday in downtown Russellville! For more information, click HERE.
