One in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. But did you know that 70% of breast abnormalities are found by self exams? And 40% of diagnosed breast cancers are detected by women who feel a lump.
Early detection is key in catching breast cancer early, and monthly self-examinations should be a part of every woman's schedule. It's too important to forget!
Why is early detection so important? According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancers found during screening exams are more likely to be smaller and still confined to the breast. In contrast, breast cancers that are found because they are causing symptoms tend to be larger and may have spread beyond the breast. The size and if the cancer has spread are some of the most important factors in the outcome of the disease.
SOS PA provides free resources to help you remember to perform your monthly self exams.
You can get free monthly calendar stickers at the supporter locations listed to the right (while supplies last ... click on supporter to find location). Or you can get monthly email alerts sent straight to your inbox. See the sign up box under the supporter list.
Check your breasts on the same day each month, and remind your sisters, mothers, daughters and friends to do the same! (We send reminders out on the 10th of each month.)
Be sure to share this page and resources with the women in your life, young and old. According to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, self-exams should become a part of a woman's routine at age 20.
Resources:
Risk factors for breast cancer
Learn more about Breast Cancer Awareness Month
CLICK HERE to dedicate a pink ribbon to someone affected by breast cancer, or in memory of a loved one. Or you can also just browse our online gallery of ribbons that features messages to and from loved ones.
Are you a cancer survivor?
The first ever National Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day (BRA Day USA) is October 17, 2012. Approximately 150,000 women undergo a mastectomy each year. But 7 out of 10 of those women are never informed about their options for breast reconstruction. Learn more about your options!
Find a bra day event near you. Click here.
For more information about SOSPA, contact reminder@sospa.org.