Think Pink

​October is recognized nationwide as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is a yearly campaign to increase awareness of the illness. In the United States alone, more than 200,000 women and men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year,

October is recognized nationwide as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is a yearly campaign to increase awareness of the illness. In the United States alone, more than 200,000 women and men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year, and for women breast cancer remains one of the most common cancer types.
This past weekend a local Susan G. Coleman walk for breast cancer research was held in Baltimore. Over 10,000 participants and spectators attended the 24th Annual Susan G. Komen Maryland Race for the Cure. The 5k run/walk has been held in Hunt Valley for the last 10 years to celebrate those who have survived or living with breast cancer and honor those who have passed away. Each year there are 4,700 women in Maryland alone diagnosed with breast cancer. This year’s walk ended up raising over $700,000.00!
In Prince Georges County we have the Breast & Cervical Cancer Prevention Program. The program promotes various services to women residing in Prince Georges County. Some of the service offered through the program are:

• ​Clinical breast exam (CBE) 
• Screening and/or diagnostic mammogram(s)
• Breast ultrasound/sonogram
• Surgical consultation
• Breast biopsy
• Pap test and/or pelvic exam
• HPV test
• Colposcopy/cervical biopsy

To be eligible for the program a women must

• Reside in Prince George’s County
• Be between the ages 40 – 64
• Have low income
• Uninsured

For more information about the BCCP program, contact Doctors Community Hospital at 301-552-7724.
It is estimated that one in eight women will develop breast cancer during her life. Breast cancer is most commonly found in women 50 years old or older. Any woman who is at high risk for breast cancer, as determined by a doctor, may need to begin screening earlier. Any woman, or man, who has symptoms or changes in their breasts should schedule an appointment with their doctor immediately.