October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and an excellent opportunity to raise awareness and learn about the importance of early detection of breast cancer.

Breast cancer is the second most common kind of cancer in women. About 1 in 8 women born today in the United States will get breast cancer at some point. The good news is that many women can survive breast cancer if it’s found and treated early. A mammogram – the screening test for breast cancer – can help find breast cancer early when it’s easier to treat.

The staff at the Florida Department of Health in Franklin County supports National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and encourages the Franklin County community, families and individuals to get involved. 

Staff at the Florida Department of Health in Franklin County from (L-R):

David Walker, Helen Cook, Rhonda Butler, Alma Pugh, Jinny Trammell

Deedee Crosby and Robert Overton.

Let's all do our part by spreading the word about mammograms and by encouraging women ages 40 to 49 to talk with their doctors about when to start getting a mammogram. In addition, let's help by encouraging women ages 50 to 74 to get a mammogram every 2 years. 

Also by encouraging all women to talk with their doctors or nurses if they notice any of the following changes: 

• A lump in the breast
• A change in size, shape, or feel of the breast
• Fluid (called discharge) coming out of a nipple

To view the risk factors click HERE or for more information about breast cancer, visit http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/.