October is more than just a month of falling leaves and pumpkins; it’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This annual campaign aims to increase awareness about breast cancer, promote early detection, and raise funds for research and support for those affected by this disease. A startling fact is that every 29 seconds someone in the world is diagnosed with breast cancer. At Trust Matters, we are proud to join the global community in supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October.
Trust Matters Supports Breast Cancer Awareness Month
We recently welcomed Lorna Kelty from Breast Cancer Ireland to our offices to present on good breast health to our female clients and staff. Lorna’s talk included:
- An introduction to Breast Cancer Ireland
- A demonstration of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and how to self-examine correctly using a medical mannequin
- Q & A followed by examination of the mannequin
The following are our top 10 takeaways from the event:
- Make time to check yourself. We all lead busy lives putting people and work ahead of ourselves. If you don’t take time for yourself, you may not see a potential abnormality.
- It is important to know ‘your norm’. Get into the habit of examining your breasts once a month so you can understand what is “normal” for you, so that if any abnormality should arise, it will be detected immediately and action can be taken. Earlier detection leads to a much more positive outcome.
- There are eight main signs and symptoms to check for. All can be found on the Breast Aware app available free for download in the App Store and on Google Play
- BCI’s vision is that through research and awareness they will transform breast cancer from often being a fatal disease (690 deaths annually) to a treatable illness long term.
- 1 in 9 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. The current statistics are:
- 23% of women are diagnosed between the ages of 20-50 years.
- 34% of women are diagnosed between the ages of 50-69 years.
- 36% of women are diagnosed over the age of 70 years.
- 1 in 1000 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Men account for less than one percent of cases but the men in your life should know that infection is not impossible.
- 3,700 new cases are diagnosed annually in Ireland (including about 30 men). This figure has been predicted to rise to almost 5,000 annually by 2045.
- About 5% to 10% of breast cancer cases are thought to be hereditary, meaning that they result directly from gene changes (mutations) passed on from a parent. This is a small figure which highlights the need for everyone to be vigilant regarding breast health.
- Review your health cover. Not all health insurance plans cover enough of the costs associated with breast cancer illness. It’s important to familiarise yourself with your plan, make any necessary adjustments and ensure you are protected should you need financial assistance.
- And finally the good news. On the back of research and awareness campaigns survival rates have increased from 75% to 88%.
Reduce Your Risk Of Developing Breast Cancer Through Exercise, Diet And Control Of Alcohol Consumption.
This October, share this information and help Breast Cancer Ireland transform breast cancer from often being a fatal disease to a treatable illness long term.
Track your breast health with the help of the Breast Aware app. Free for download in the App Store and on Google Play.