October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: What You Need to Know

Corinne Copeland
Oct 2
2 min read

Updated: Oct 4

Five smiling women in pink shirts with pink ribbons join hands, symbolizing unity and support, against a white background.

Every October, communities across the nation come together to shine a light on Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This is more than just wearing pink—it’s about education, early detection, supporting those who are fighting, celebrating survivors, and remembering those we’ve lost.

At Real Nurturing Family Practice, we believe knowledge is empowerment, and prevention is care.

Why Awareness Matters

Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers among women, and while men can also be affected, women are at higher risk. The good news is that when detected early, treatment is often more effective and outcomes are better.

Early detection saves lives. That’s why breast health awareness and regular screening are essential.

Four people in pink shirts and ribbons smile at a charity race, each with a numbered bib. Sunlit park background with trees and balloons.

Risk Factors to Know

Not all risk factors can be changed, but knowing them helps you make proactive health decisions. Some include:

Age: Risk increases as you get older.
Family history & genetics: BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations increase risk.
Lifestyle factors: Obesity, alcohol use, and inactivity can contribute.
Hormonal history: Early menstruation, late menopause, or hormone therapy may also increase risk.

Steps for Prevention & Early Detection

You can’t eliminate every risk, but you can take steps to protect your health:

Schedule regular mammograms (typically recommended starting at age 40–50, or earlier if you have a family history).
Do monthly self-breast exams to check for changes such as lumps, swelling, or skin changes.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle—balanced diet, regular exercise, limited alcohol, and weight management.
Know your family history and discuss genetic testing if appropriate.

Person in a pink towel checks breast in front of a vibrant yellow-orange background, suggesting self-examination or awareness theme.

Signs & Symptoms to Watch For

Contact your provider if you notice:

A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
Changes in breast size or shape
Skin dimpling, redness, or scaling
Nipple changes or discharge

Supporting the Fight

Awareness is powerful, but so is action. You can:

Encourage loved ones to get screened.
Support local and national breast cancer foundations.
Share information to spread awareness.

We’re Here for You

At Real Nurturing Family Practice, we provide well-woman exams, breast health education, and preventive screenings. If it’s time for your mammogram or you’ve noticed changes in your breast health, don’t wait—schedule your visit today.

17920 Huffmeister Rd, Suite 220, Cypress, TX 77429

Call us at 832-653-6020 or book online below:

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

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