Breast Cancer Awareness Information

Know Your Facts

1. All women are at risk for breast cancer. All breast problems must be checked.
2. African American/Black women under the age of 40 have more aggressive and deadly tumors, need earlier, more frequent breast cancer screenings, and aggressive medical treatment to increase their survival advantages.
3. Elderly black women may be less aware of breast cancer risk factors or delay medical attention, which results in more advanced disease.
4. Breast cancer is a leading cause of death among black women
5. Please know that MEN can also get breast cancer! The symptoms are the same as for women. Look at and feel your chest and pectoral muscles for any unusual changes. If you find any signs as listed below, see your doctor to be checked immediately.

• A lump in the pecs, chest, collarbone, nipples, torso, or underarms.
• Discharge or fluid from the nipples that is bloody, clear, pus-like, or smells bad.
• Skin changes that are bumpy, dark, different color, itchy, painful, rash-like, puckered, redness, sore/ulcer, shrunken, swollen, or tender.
• Take charge of your health: Learn about your family’s cancer history as cancer of the breast, colon, ovaries and prostate are related and either side can carry the gene.
• Reduce your alcohol and fat intake, reduce your weight, and increase your exercise.
• http://aabcainc.org/