Ottawa – This Breast Cancer Awareness Month we encourage all Canadians to learn more about the risk factors and symptoms of breast cancer, and the ways it can be treated. Across Canada, 1 out of 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. It is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death for women in Canada. In 2022, an estimated 28,600 Canadian women were diagnosed with breast cancer – an average of 78 per day. Breast cancer can also be found in men and last year, 270 men in Canada were diagnosed with the disease.
Cancer is a complex disease, and though some factors are unavoidable or unknown, there are several ways a person can reduce their risk of developing cancer. Making healthier choices such as being physically active, using sunscreen, getting quality sleep on a regular basis, eating a variety of healthy foods, limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding smoking can help reduce the risk for some types of cancers, including breast cancer.
Early detection is the best prevention. When breast cancer is detected and treated early, the chances of successful treatment improve – that is why early detection is key. Everyone should know what is normal for their own breasts. Many women and persons assigned female at birth are able to identify issues by noticing changes in the way their breasts look and feel.
Screening tests can also help find breast cancer before any symptoms develop. If you think you might have a higher than average risk for breast cancer due to risk factors such as medical family history or a genetic condition, speak with a health care provider about a personal plan for screening.
While we’ve made significant progress in breast cancer survival rates over the last 20 years, we cannot be complacent. Many of us have had a loved one who was diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their life. For those who are struggling or have lost a loved one to breast cancer, we invite you to make use of the portal Wellness Together Canada for access to free 24/7 professional services and mental health resources to everyone living in Canada.
This October, we encourage you to learn more about the risk factors of breast cancer and show your support for people who are impacted by the disease. For our moms, aunts, grandmothers, sisters and friends, please join us and many other Canadians who will be wearing pink ribbons to raise awareness of breast cancer and to work towards a cancer-free future. – Mark Holland, Ya’ara Saks