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Alongside falling leaves of orange, red and yellow, pink is a familiar color during October, because it's Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women (aside from non-melanoma skin cancers), affecting one in eight women during their lifetime. Rarely, it can also affect men. We all know someone who has had breast cancer. And many women reading this today are breast cancer survivors.
Breast cancer can be serious, yet it's very treatable at its earliest stages. Thanks to advancements in therapies and technology, treatments are improving every day; there are more breast cancer survivors than ever before.
Breast cancer patients don't face this challenge alone. Avera has placed a priority on building a team of specialists who partner with local doctors in delivering care, from diagnostic imaging to radiologists, surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, plastic and reconstructive surgeons, genetic counselors, navigators and more.
They come alongside patients with care and compassion at a time that can feel scary and uncertain. With knowledge and expertise, they're ready to answer questions and help patients arrive at the best possible treatment plan. Breast-specific tumor conferences ensure that every patient's case is presented before a team of experts. It's like getting multiple second opinions in one setting.
Certain women are at higher risk of breast cancer due to their genetics, health history or other factors, such as having dense breasts. Through high risk clinics, women identified as being at higher risk can have access to more screening options or more frequent screenings.
October is a time for awareness - not fear. When women stay vigilant, they are doing everything they can to proactively protect themselves.
Here's how you can help save lives this October - maybe even your own.
• If you are a woman age 40 or older and have not yet scheduled your annual mammogram this year, please make that appointment.
• Remind your closest friends and loved ones to get their mammogram.
Be armed with the facts, rather than fears or excuses:
• Getting a mammogram usually takes 15 minutes or less. The squeeze isn't painful, just a little uncomfortable for a short amount of time.
• A 3D mammogram is safe and effective. The small amount of radiation received during this exam is well within safe levels, and is about the same amount of radiation a woman would get from her natural surroundings over about seven weeks.
• A woman's risk level will determine what her screening plan should be.
• Most insurance plans provide 100% coverage for yearly screening mammograms for women 40 and older. Check with your health insurer if you have questions.
Even if you get annual mammograms, you should also do self-exams regularly. If you feel any breast lumps, report it to your provider. Breast tumors usually feel hard and have an irregular shape, but even lumps that feel soft and smooth should be reported. A breast lump doesn't necessarily mean you have cancer, as other conditions can cause breast lumps, but it's best to get it checked out in a timely way.
This October during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let's all be proactive as we "think pink." If you're a woman, learn about breast health and get the screenings recommended for you. All of us can show how much we care by supporting survivors and encouraging women we know to get their mammograms.
-- Debbie Streier is regional president/CEO of Avera Marshall Regional Medical Center