Breast Cancer Support Services of Berks County is a non-profit organization that provides hope, information, and emotional support to every person affected by breast cancer. On Thursday, April 28th, the organization presented its “Cancer Knows No Party” event. The Olivet Boys and Girls Club of Reading and Berks County hosted the event. As a staunch supporter of providing hope, information, and emotional support to individuals affected by breast cancer, our firm is proud to participate as a co-sponsor for this important community outreach affair.
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), breast cancer (aside from skin cancers) is the most common cancer diagnosis that women in the United States face. It accounts for approximately 30% of all new cancer diagnoses annually. The ACS’ estimates for breast cancer rates in 2022 are as follows:
In the United States, the average risk of a woman developing breast cancer at some point in her lifetime is about 13%, or a 1 in 8 chance. However, in the past few years the incidence rate has increased by 0.5% annually. The ACS reports that breast cancer occurs most frequently in middle-aged and older women. For example, the median age for a breast cancer diagnosis is 62-years-old. As compared to the prevalence of breast cancer diagnoses in middle-aged and older women, diagnoses in women under the age of 45 are relatively uncommon.
When it comes to breast cancer, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment are key. In some cases, doctors find breast cancer after symptoms have already appeared, but plenty of women with breast cancer may experience no symptoms at all. Here are the ACS’ official recommendations for the early detection of breast cancer in women who are at average risk for the disease (women at average risk do not have a personal history of breast cancer, a strong family history of the disease, have not had chest radiation therapy before the age of 30, and do not have a genetic mutation known to increase breast cancer risks):
Although many women experience no symptoms of breast cancer, some potential warning signs to look out for include a new lump or mass, swelling of all or part of the breast, skin dimpling, breast or nipple pain, nipple retraction (or turning inward), nipple or breast skin that is red, flaking, dry, or thickened, nipple discharge (not including breast milk), and swollen lymph nodes under the arm or close to the collar bone. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation with your provider.
The “Cancer Knows No Party” event took place on Thursday, April 28th. Community organizations like local non-profits and elected officials were in attendance to serve as a reminder that cancer is a disease that affects everyone. The non-profits also provided useful local resources and services for attendees, their families, and their friends.
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