Every year, October marks the month of Breast Cancer Awareness.
A leading type of cancer found in women, and yet there is still the underlying societal fear for women to book and attend a breast screening.
We have all seen those cute little pink ribbons pinned onto shirts or sported by our favourite teams. We may even know someone who has been directly impacted by breast cancer that has in some way also affected our lives. In short, it would be a unanimous vote that cancer sucks. It tears away loved ones and exhausts even the strongest of us. Mothers, daughters, aunties, sisters. It can happen at any time, to anyone.
As with most illnesses, treatment is far more successful when detected early. Women over the age of 50 can receive a free breast exam every 2 years but how many of us actually take the time to look after our own bodies and make sure that every thing is as it should be? Women with a family history of breast cancer, or any woman should be proactive in ensuring themselves peace of mind that their boobs are the handful they desire, not becoming out of hand when a surprise lump is found too late. But what can we do in the mean time before we turn the ripe old age of 50? Our first port of call is a DIY approach. It’s best to know your breasts. This does not need to be anything too clinical or fancy, simply cop a feel while showering or getting dressed; it’s really that easy. The nurses and doctors at WHFS can show you the best way to do the DIY approach. You should contact your doctor if you notice any sudden changes to your breasts including feeling a lump, lumpiness or thickening in the breast or armpit; changes to your skin such as redness or dimpling; changes to your nipple and/or new persistent pain.
It’s never too early to get to know your breasts, make a habit of feeling them as part of your daily routine – just like brushing your teeth. Make a habit of it and soon you will forget that you ever had to remember. When is there a better time to start than right now, coincidentally Breast Cancer Awareness Month? Could it be anymore perfect? I think not. Moving on from personal breast fondling, what else can we do this month in the name of Breast Cancer Awareness? Wear pink! Go find the pretty pink ribbon, wear it with pride. Put some pink shoe laces in your favourite sneakers. If you’re really feeling up to it, why not dye your hair pink? A little reminder to yourself and those around you that Breast Cancer is a real threat that we cannot neglect.
This October, remind yourself and your girl friends to cop a feel, wear a little pink and remember that it’s always Breast to be Aware.
Our guest blogger
Our guest blogger today is UWA student Georgia Donaldson. After spending her last few years delving into the likes of Shakespeare and International Relations, Georgia decided to spend her final winter break of her English and Political Science degree interning at WHFS as a social media and marketing intern. With a keen passion for all things social media and writing, she tried her hand once again at blogging, wanting to share her voice and small contributions from her time at WHFS.
