PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the Collective Prevention Service (CPS) says that while breast cancer cannot always be prevented, adopting healthy lifestyle practices can contribute to reducing the risk of breast cancer and several other noncommunicable diseases.
CPS encourages the community to maintain a healthy body weight, stay physically active, eat a balanced diet, avoid tobacco, and limit alcohol consumption.
These healthy lifestyle practices can also reduce the risk of other chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is also a time to recognize women and families currently facing breast cancer, those undergoing treatment, survivors, caregivers, and families who have lost loved ones to the disease.
A breast cancer diagnosis can affect much more than a person's physical health. It can have emotional, psychological, social and financial consequences for patients and their families.
Family members, friends, colleagues, and the wider community can provide valuable support by listening, helping with practical needs, encouraging adherence to medical care, and respecting the individual choices and experiences of people undergoing treatment.
CPS encourages the community to avoid stigma, misinformation and assumptions about breast cancer. Each person's diagnosis and treatment experience is different.
The 2026 theme, “Every story is unique, every journey matters,” reminds the community that no person affected by breast cancer should have to face that journey alone.
Throughout October, CPS encourages women to use Breast Cancer Awareness Month as a reminder to prioritize their health, understand their individual risks, pay attention to changes in their breasts and seek professional medical advice when necessary.
CPS also encourages families to have conversations about family medical history where possible, as this information can assist healthcare providers in assessing individual breast cancer risk.
Breast cancer awareness should extend beyond the month of October. Knowing the warning signs, making healthy lifestyle choices, participating in appropriate screening and seeking timely medical attention should remain part of women's health throughout the year.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month forms part of the CPS annual calendar of health observances and provides an opportunity to increase public awareness about one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide.