Awareness for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Baptist Health System hospitals bring awareness of cancer prevention and the importance of fast diagnosis and treatment. Through a variety of events hosted throughout the month, the hospitals will work to promote yearly mammograms and show their support for the fight against breast cancer.

“The reality is that this year alone, over 230,000 American women will be diagnosed with breast cancer,” said Matt Stone, Baptist Health System CEO. “That number can be significantly reduced if women make the smart choice to come in for their annual screening. At our hospitals, we have dedicated oncology teams in place to diagnose patients early and ensure they receive compassionate, quality care.”

The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that women between the ages of 20 and 39 have a clinical breast exam by a health professional every three years. After age 40, it should increase to once a year. However, you should talk to your doctor about your personal risk factors before making a decision about when to start getting mammograms or how often you should get them. 

In addition, women should conduct self-examinations about once a month. If something about the size, shape or feel of the breast seems abnormal or you’re having irregular discharge, you should contact your doctor. According to the ACS, breast self-exams are an option for women starting in their 20s.

Although a breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, it can be successfully treated with the right help. Baptist hospitals (Baptist Medical Center, Mission Trail Baptist, Northeast Baptist, North Central Baptist, St. Luke’s Baptist and Resolute Health Hospital) are here to guide you on your journey towards recovery. Navigators with the Baptist Breast Center walk with patients through every stage of their journey providing support, comfort, understanding and connection to resources.