October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Norwood Health Commissioner Brad King sent us the following message to share with our readers:

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month—a time to promote regular mammograms and increase early detection of breast cancer. About 1 in 8 women in the United States will get breast cancer. Other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common kind of cancer in women. Mammograms can help find breast cancer early when there is the best chance for treatment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, breast cancer is the number one cause of cancer death in Hispanic women. It is the second most common cause of cancer death in White, Black, Asian/Pacific Islander, and American Indian/Alaska Native women. The American Cancer Society recommends Yearly mammograms for women starting at age 40. However, individuals should talk with their doctor about their personal risk for breast cancer, especially if breast or ovarian cancer runs in your family. Your doctor can help you decide when and how often you should get a mammogram.