By Rebecca Kenyon
In October, pink ribbons aren’t only for little girls they are for every woman because they represent the fight to find a cure for breast cancer.
Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, according to the American Cancer Society.
The American Cancer Society defines cancer as a disease that causes cells in the body to change and spread. Most cancers form a mass of cells called a lump or tumor and are named after the part of the body that the lump was established.
The American Cancer Society estimates one out of every eight women in the United States is likely to develop breast cancer sometime in her life.
On Oct. 7 Ashley Engle, peer educator, and Rachel Woock, graduate intern, of Choosing Healthy Options In College Educational Series by Weigel Health Center counseled 12 BSC students on threats and myths of breast cancer.
Engle passed out pinkribbons and pink fact cards. Self examination charts that can be hung in the shower were also passed out to remind women to check for breast abnormalities each month.
Woock reminded students that a common myth is that breast cancer can be prevented.
“The fact is the cause of breast cancer is not fully known so there is really no 100 percent way to prevent it,” Woock said.
Engle discussed what can be done to limit risks.
“It’s more or less getting into a healthy lifestyle— eating right, not drinking every night to decrease your risks,” Engle said.
Engle said the following can increase the risks of breast cancer:
- smoking
- drinking
- extra sources of estrogen
- lack of exercise
- stress
“The number one key to surviving is early detection. If you catch breast cancer in stage one it is very likely that you will be without breast cancer in five years,” Engle said. “It’s when you detect the cancer late that it can’t be cured.”
According to the American Cancer Society breast cancer can be detected through:
“No matter what don’t be afraid to get a second opinion” Engle said. “Don’t rely on one doctor’s opinion. It may save your life.”
Engle and Woock said they will continue to educate BSC students by visiting dorms by request to discuss breast cancer awareness.
Additional topics counseled by CHOICES:
- binge drinking
- unprotected sex
- sexually transmitted infections
- healthy relationships
- setting goals
CHOICES is located in Weigel on the second floor. For more information contact Weigel’s Health and Wellness Coordinator, Tammy Kresge at (716) 878-5330.
Rebecca Kenyon can be contacted at usiarm65@mail.buffalostate.edu |
