TrueStar Staff 
Did you know that there’s only a five percent difference between a women’s chances of avoiding a breast cancer diagnosis (87.5%, according to Breastcancer.org and National Cancer Institute) and her chances of surviving the first round of Russian roulette (83.3%)?
In fact, many women who get diagnosed with it don’t even notice any symptoms, and according to breastcancer.org, about 85% of women diagnosed don’t have a first degree family relative. There are so many women that unknowingly suffer from this deadly disease that the whole month of October is set aside to raise awareness.
This is why it’s crucial to get a mammogram at least once a year — especially if you’re 50 or older.
In the United States, breast cancer is the the No. 1 cause of cancer-related deaths for Black and Hispanic women, and Black women are more likely to die from breast cancer than any other racial or ethnic group. This is because Black women are usually diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer, which is considered the deadliest and most aggressive form.
Some common symptoms of breast cancer include but aren’t limited to:
- A new lump in the breast or underarm
- Bloody discharge from the nipple
- Changes in the shape or texture of the nipple or breast
However, sometimes you may not feel any symptoms or feel false symptoms from a self-exam, so you should always get a breast exam from a medical professional.
Breast cancer can also occur in men, but it’s far less likely. Use this Breast Cancer Awareness Month to encourage the women (mom, auntie, grandma, mentors, etc.) in your life to get a breast exam and possibly prevent death.
By Jael Green
Instagram: @jaeizzle
True Star Media’s content is made possible thanks to donors like you. To support the voice and perspective of today’s youth, donate at truestarmedia.org/donate.
