October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We see the signs everywhere you go, not only in the real world but also in SL. Breast Cancer Awareness month started its movement in 1985 to remind everyone of the importance of getting mammograms done. The recommendation is that women at the age of 40 start their screening and schedule your appointments every year to detect breast cancer in the early stages and proactively treat it for a better chance of success.
Breast cancer does not only affect women but affects men also. It is a rare instance that men are affected by breast cancer but not impossible. Women and men can detect early symptoms by checking for lumps, and if you have a family history of Cancer, then whether you are male or female, it is always best to get tested.
There are always resources for testing; please talk to your primary health care provider and find out your options for getting tested. No one ever wakes up one day and says, “I want to have breast cancer today with a side of toast.” No one ever thinks that they will be the ones to get it, but always get screened like you might have that chance.
And in observance of this monthly event, please send me someone you know, or if even it is you and we will post the names in next month’s magazine. When it comes to your health and the health of your family and friends, encourage them to get screened; the life you save might be your own.
There are groups out there to help you in your journey:
https://ww5.komen.org/BreastCancer/SupportGroups.html
CPO Asa Darkbyrd
Editor In Chief
SL Coast Guard Magazine