More than the color for breast cancer awareness, pink represents the promise between two sisters to find a cure for breast cancer. That promise started Susan G. Komen for the Cure and ignited the passion of millions to create a world without breast cancer. Visit www.passionatelypink.org to find out how you can join in the fight against breast cancer by participating in Passionately Pink for the Cure this October!

Komen Promotes Breast Self-Awareness for Early Detection

Dr. Eric P. Winer, Chief Scientific Advisor at Susan G. Komen for the Cure®, stresses that it is important for women to be aware of the normal look and feel of their breasts, further advising them to report any changes to their doctors. Breast health awareness remains critical, since we know that

Women should understand their personal risks of the disease and the benefits of lifestyle choices in terms of reducing the risk of breast cancer. Women can decrease their risk of developing breast cancer by avoiding excessive weight gain, limiting alcohol consumption and getting regular exercise. Routine mammography for women age 40 and over has also been shown to improve breast cancer survival.

Breast cancer remains a common problem, but with a combination of early detection and effective treatment, the vast majority of women will go on to lead a long and healthy life.

Steps to Breast Self-Awareness

1. Know your risk
   • Talk to your family to learn about your family health history
     
   • Talk to your provider about your personal risk of breast cancer
2. Get screened
   • Ask your doctor which screening tests are right for you if you are at higher risk
     
   • Have a mammogram every year starting at age 40 if you are at average risk
     
   • Have a clinical breast exam at least every 3 years starting at 20, and every year starting at 40
3. Know what is normal for you
   See your health care provider right away if you notice any of these breast changes:
   • Lump, hard knot or thickening
     
   • Swelling, warmth, redness or darkening
     
   • Change in the size or shape of the breast
     
   • Dimpling or puckering of the skin
     
   • Itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple
     
   • Pulling in of your nipple or other parts of the breast
     
   • Nipple discharge that starts suddenly
     
   • New pain in one spot that doesn't go away
4. Make healthy lifestyle choices
   • Maintain a healthy weight
     
   • Add exercise into your routine
     
   • Limit alcohol intake
5. Click here to download Steps to Breast Self-Examination card

The generosity of our donors is essential as we continue our efforts to help breast cancer patients today, as well as to invest in the health of future generations. Please click here to find out ways you can support the cause.


Susan G. Komen for the Cure was established in 1982 by Nancy Brinker to honor the memory of her sister, Susan G. Komen, who died from breast cancer at the age of 36. It is a national organization with a network of volunteers working through local affiliates and Komen Race for the Cure® events fighting to eradicate breast cancer as a life-threatening disease by advancing research, education, screening, and treatment.


For more information on breast health or breast cancer, please call the Komen Foundation's National Toll-Free Helpline 1.800.I'M AWARE® or visit the web site at www.komen.org.

Looking for low-cost mammography resources? If you are age 40 - 64, you may be eligible for free or low-cost breast and cervical health screening services through the Washington Breast and Cervical Health Program. Click here for more information.