Barker Heating & Cooling - Did You Know October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month?

Breast Cancer Awareness And The Month of October

The month of October has been set aside to bring awareness to the prevention, research, and treatment of breast cancer. HVAC professionals throughout California are committed to not only raising awareness but also supporting the brave individuals that fight with this disease daily. Regardless of the stage in which the battle is being fought, October is the month to give a voice to the fight.

In October of 1985, the American Cancer Society teamed up with the then Imperial Chemical Industries pharmaceutical division (now AstraZeneca) to promote the crucial effectiveness of mammograms.

In 1993, however, Evelyn Lauder of the Estee Lauder Companies founded a research program to further the research on the cause, treatment, prevention, and cure called The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. October is the time to not only show support to individuals fighting against breast cancer but to promote early detection, raise money for research, and distribute information.

The Pink Ribbon Symbols

The most prominent symbol during October’s Breast Cancer Awareness campaign is the pink ribbon; which symbolizes strength, encouragement, and hope. Cancer survivors and supporters wear the pink ribbon to show their support to others who still fight to survive.

Interestingly, the original breast cancer awareness ribbon was not pink, but peach. Charlotte Haley, a 68-year-old woman who had seen several family members suffer from breast cancer, created the peach ribbons to gain the notice of legislators regarding the lack of funds for breast cancer research.

In 1991, the Susan G. Komen Foundation used similar (but pink) ribbons as giveaways in aid of breast cancer survivors. Later on, in 1993, Estee Lauder set up the pink ribbon as its iconic symbol of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Though each company and charity may have its own unique take on the pink ribbon, the symbol itself can not be patented as it is a public domain symbol.

Why October 18th is Important

While the entire month of October is dedicated to research, support, and preventive measures, the core of the health campaign lies with Mammography. Early detection of breast cancer raises the probability of not only successful treatment, but also of a complete cure.

What makes early detection possible is mammograms. October 18th is National Mammography Day. It is on this day specifically when the focus is put on the importance of annual screenings.

It is due to mammography that otherwise undetectable conditions are found, and lives are saved. It is because of early screenings that researchers have developed treatments that are effective.

Medical experts recommend that annual mammograms be done once the age of 45 to 50 is reached for all women. In cases where there is a history of breast cancer, earlier screenings may be wise. Consult your doctor to determine when the best time is for you to get screened.

How to Spot The Symptoms

While annual mammograms are a great avenue for early detection, knowing what symptoms to be on the lookout for is also important. Performing self-breast exams can lead to early detection, as well. Women should get in the habit of self-exams as young as their 20s. It is recommended to perform the self-exam monthly at the same time each month.

While many breast cancer symptoms can also be symptoms of benign issues, the advice of a medical professional is always recommended. Here are 5 symptoms to be aware of:

Changes to the breast or nipple including;
1. Swelling
2. Redness or change of color.
3. Increase size or shape.
4. Feelings of warmness or hardness.
5. Puckering of the skin.
Lumps or growths under the skin.
Unusual pain or tenderness.
Itchiness or irritation.
Discharge from the nipple outside of breast milk.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek the help of a doctor immediately. The early detection of breast cancer has saved the lives of thousands of individuals with treatment and care.

Barker Heating & Cooling Supports The Survivors of Breast Cancer

Barker Heating & Cooling supports National Breast Cancer Awareness month by commiserating with the loved ones of those who fought the battle against breast cancer. A leading heating and air provider in Dublin, CA since 1998, Barker Heating & Cooling makes HVAC repair as seamless as possible in the Bay area. With a focus on customer service and technical professionalism, each customer becomes a part of the family.