Think pink: It’s more than just a catchy slogan

October may be passing into history, but there are still a few days left to recognize it as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and act accordingly.

Started in 1985 by the American Cancer Society, the campaign is designed to create awareness of breast cancer and to raise funds to help combat it. It serves as a reminder that all women over the age of 40 should get an annual mammogram. Women younger than that should get them earlier if there is a genetic history of breast cancer and/or if there are any symptoms such as a lump or pain.

Locally, Hill Country Memorial’s Breast Center provides state-of-the-art services and technology for scanning the detecting breast cancer. Texas Oncology likewise is set to provide full treatment right here in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. There is no need for anyone to have to travel to a big city to get the level of cancer care they do here.

We’ve included a special section in this week’s edition to highlight some survivors and give simple tips about prevention methods that are available here locally.

As with any cancer, early detection is the key to survivability. According to the American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is detected early, and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%. Early detection includes doing monthly breast self-exams, and scheduling regular clinical breast exams and mammograms.

Breast cancer is one of the deadliest cancers for women. With improved research and clinical trials, methods are constantly improving to combat it. The funding and awareness raised during Breast Cancer Month has helped save uncountable lives and will continue to do so.

Wearing pink has become synonymous with breast cancer awareness and serves as a simple reminder for people to check on loved ones and to make sure regular screenings are happening.

And guys, it’s not just for the women. Although fairly uncommon, men are also at risk of getting breast cancer. Fortunately, it’s treatable.

Also for the men is No-Shave November, or Movember, for cancer awareness. Just like wearing pink for breast cancer awareness, men are encouraged to grow a mustache or stop shaving for the month of November. The awareness campaign started a few years ago to draw attention to prostate and testicular cancer, but has widened in scope to include all cancers.

The main thing is that these public awareness campaigns do make a difference. They help save lives. Hopefully there will be a time when cancer is curable and preventable and a thing of the past. Until then, we can wear pink ribbons and grow facial hair in support of great causes and loved ones very dear to us. – J.S.

(This editorial appeared in the Oct. 27, 2021, edition of the Fredericksburg Standard-Radio Post.)