United against breast cancer during Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is observed as Breast Cancer Awareness Month which is a vital time to repeat our commitment in supporting those affected by this life-threatening disease. This year’s official theme for Breast Cancer Awareness Month – “No one should face breast cancer alone”, resonates deeply, emphasizing the importance of collective support.

About Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast Cancer Awareness Month was first observed in 1985, initiated by the American Cancer Society (ACS) and Imperial Chemical Industry (ICI). Its purpose was to raise awareness, educate and support individuals affected by breast cancer. It focuses to promote early detection and screening and provide resources and services for patients and families. Globally, people wear pink ribbon to show support as it is the international symbol of breast cancer awareness.

The devastating reality of breast cancer

• Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women worldwide with 70% mortality occurring in resource constrained settings

• Over 2.3 million new breast cancer cases are observed annually

• Globally, breast cancer caused 670,000 deaths in 2022

• Breast cancer may occur in men at any age, but it usually occurs in men between 60 to 70 years of age. There’s 1% of all cases of breast cancer.

The power of support for fighting breast cancer

Facing breast cancer alone can be challenging but with support groups, online forums and local organisations helps with emotional support, shared experiences and advice, resources, guidance. It also ensures adequate access to early detection and screening, quality treatment and care, and financial assistance.

Lifestyle changes to prevent breast cancer

Here are some preventive measures for reducing the risk breast cancer to implement in your lifestyle:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight increases the risk of breast cancer.

• Exercise regularly: Aim for 150 minutes/week of moderate-intensity exercise.

• Eat a balanced diet: Focus on whole foods, fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

• Limit alcohol consumption: It is recommended to limit/stop alcohol consumption to prevent this life-threatening disease.

• Quit smoking: Smoking increases the risk of breast cancer, so it necessary to quit smoking. 

Other preventive measures

Here are some other preventives that increase the risk of breast cancer:

• It is important to reduce radiation exposure such as CT scans and X-rays and avoid unnecessary medical imaging.

• Avoiding birth control pills is essential (if over 35 or with risk factors).

• Maintain adequate levels of Vitamin D to prevent the increasing risk of breast cancer.

Remember, prevention and early detection are key to lower the risk of breast cancer.

Celebrating progress, embracing hope

Breast cancer mortality rates have declined by 40% between the 1980s and 2020. Globally, countries that have succeeded in reducing breast cancer mortality have been able to achieve an annual breast cancer mortality reduction of 2–4% per year.