Cancer is potentially a serious illness that causes substantial disorders for patients in all aspects of personal, family, and social life. It is known as a social phenomenon due to its association with social isolation and death. Breast cancer is a shattering disease that affects women worldwide.

Except for skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women of United States. Every year, it accounts for around 30% (or 1 in 3 women). Breast cancer primarily affects middle-aged and older women. At the time of breast cancer diagnosis, the median age is 62. This means that half of all women diagnosed with breast cancer are 62 or younger when they are diagnosed.  Breast cancer affects just a small percentage of women under the age of 45.

Breast cancer causes not only physical pain but also emotional and psychological distress for sufferers and their loved ones. The meaning of life is similar to the purpose of life, and the goals of life are valued favorably. It seems that social support results in reducing cancer patients and changing their meaning of life. Breast cancer support is essential to provide care and assist the patients in their difficult journey. National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) is an annual international health campaign held in October to promote awareness and funding for research into the disease's cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure. Perfect Shape believes in year-round breast cancer awareness to empower the women around them. In this blog, we discuss the importance of breast cancer awareness and assistance for the strong women affected by this disease.

Formation of Breast Cancer: Understanding Breast Anatomy

A breast is made of a breast tissue (also called glandular tissue) and fat. Breast tissue has three major components: lobules, milk ducts, and connective/connective tissue. The lobules are the milk-producing glands. Ducts are tubes that transport milk to the nipple. The connective tissue (fibrous and fatty tissue) surrounds and binds everything together. The pectoralis muscle is found between the breast and the ribs in the chest wall.

Breast cancer is a condition in which abnormal breast cells multiply uncontrollably, resulting in the development of tumors. If left untreated, these tumors can spread throughout the body and become life threating.

Breast cancer cells form in the milk ducts and/or lobules of the breast, where milk is produced. The initial stage, also known as ‘in situ’, is less risky. Cancer cells can invade and spread to nearby breast tissue; they form tumors and start causing lumps or thickening. When breast cancer spreads to other parts of the body, it is referred as metastasis.

Breast Cancer Types

The most prevalent types of breast cancer are as follows:

Cancer of the ducts invasive:

Cancer cells develop in the ducts and spread to other areas of the breast tissue as they mature. Moreover, invasive cancer cells have the ability to metastasis, or spread, to different bodily regions.

Lobular cancer with invasion:

Cancer cells start in the lobules and subsequently migrate to neighboring breast tissues from the lobules. It is also possible for these invasive cancer cells to spread to different body areas.

Treatment

Treatment for breast cancer is determined on the type and stage of the cancer. In some circumstances, a combination of methods is used to reduce the likelihood of the cancer returning. Among these approaches are surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy to kill any residual cancer cells, and medications such as hormone therapy or chemotherapy to prevent the cancer from spreading. The key to successful treatment is to begin early and stick to the entire treatment regimen. Surgery might be as easy as removing just the malignancy, or as complex as removing the entire breast. Radiation therapy aids in the destruction of any remaining tiny cancer cells. Medications are chosen based on the kind of cancer, and may include hormone treatments or chemotherapy in some cases.

Breast Cancer Awareness

Breast Cancer Awareness Month held every October. Its aim is to raise awareness about breast cancer, its screening process and how to prevent it. You notice a lot of pink during this month because it's the color associated with the campaign. PinkOctober involves a number of campaigns and events organized by different groups, from advocacy organizations to local communities. Purpose of all programs is to supporting people diagnosed with breast cancer, educating others about risk factors, and emphasizing the importance of getting regular check-ups, especially if you are around 40 years old.

On October 13, the United States recognizes Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day, which highlights the need for more research on breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. This awareness month started as a week-long event in 1985 and later became a month-long campaign. In 1992, the pink ribbon became a symbol of breast cancer awareness.

Breast Cancer Support Programs

There are various types of breast cancer support available.

Breast cancer support comes in a variety of ways that address the different needs of those suffering by the disease. Some of the most prevalent sorts of assistance are:

Counselling

Counselling services provide patients and their families the professional counsel and support. Trained counsellors assist patients in navigating the emotional obstacles of the condition, offering coping methods and emotional support. Counselling services can be quite beneficial in assisting clients with dealing with anxiety, despair, and other emotional concerns that may occur during their breast cancer journey.

Support Group

Individuals can discuss their experiences, emotions, and worries about breast cancer in a safe and friendly atmosphere through support groups. A sense of community and friendship is provided by connecting participants with people who understand their path. Support groups can be in-person or online, allowing flexibility and accessibility for people in a variety of situations.

Educational materials

Educational tools are critical in providing individuals with information about breast cancer. These resources discuss prevention tactics, early detection methods, treatment alternatives, and coping mechanisms. Healthcare providers, support organizations, and reliable web sites can all provide access to educational information. They assist people in making educated decisions regarding their breast wellness and medical options.

Financial assistance programs

For many individuals and families, the financial burden of breast cancer can be overwhelming. Financial programs cover medical bills, transportation charges, and other financial obligations. These programs can help ease some of the financial stress that comes with breast cancer, allowing people to focus on their recovery without having to worry about money.

 

We understand the struggles women face when dealing with breast cancer at any stage of their lives. It is undoubtedly a challenging time for them and their families to endure. However, women are incredibly strong, and they can confront any situation. That is why we are always here to provide support. Breast cancer awareness should be promoted year-around to encourage open discourse, reduce stigma, and empower women to take care of their breast health. The purpose of this blog is to raise awareness not just during the month of October, but throughout the whole year. We stand with you, strong women. Stay strong, shine, and feel perfect just the way you are.