October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: a meaningful reminder to pay attention to our
health and encourage the people we love to do the same.
Breast cancer is a health concern that touches families around the world. Approximately 99% of
breast cancer cases occur in women, and the risk increases with age. The World Health
Organization (WHO) estimates that 2.4 million women worldwide were diagnosed with breast
cancer in 2024. While those numbers may sound daunting, there is an important reason for
hope: early detection matters.
As we get older, staying on top of doctor visits and recommended screenings becomes
increasingly important, not only for breast cancer, but for our overall health. At the same time,
appointments can become more difficult to manage. There may be transportation to arrange,
calendars to coordinate, or simply a desire to have someone there for support. A Seniors
Helping Seniors® caregiver can help with appointment reminders, transportation,
companionship, and other everyday needs that make staying proactive about your health a
little easier.
Why Breast Cancer Awareness Matters
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is recognized each October to educate people about breast
cancer and emphasize the importance of early detection and screening. The goal isn’t to
frighten anyone. It’s to give people the information and encouragement they need to take an
active role in their health.
While several factors can increase risk, including age and family history, having no family history
doesn’t mean someone is free from risk. According to WHO, approximately half of breast
cancers develop in women who have no identifiable risk factor other than being female and
over age 40.
Breast cancer doesn’t always cause noticeable symptoms, either. When symptoms do occur,
they can include a new lump in the breast or underarm, changes in the size or shape of the
breast, breast pain, or unusual nipple discharge. Any concerning changes should be discussed
with a healthcare provider. That’s one reason regular screening can be so valuable.
What Does Breast Cancer Screening Look Like?
For most women of screening age, a mammogram is the primary screening tool for breast
cancer. A mammogram is an X-ray image of the breast that doctors use to look for early signs of
cancer, sometimes before a lump can be felt.
For women at average risk, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends mammograms
every two years from ages 40 through 74. Screening decisions may be different for adults over
74 or people with certain risk factors, so it’s important to talk with your healthcare provider
about what’s appropriate for you.
Helping Someone You Love Get Screened
Sometimes knowing a screening is important isn’t the same as feeling ready to schedule it.
If someone you love has been putting off a mammogram, approach the conversation with
understanding. Ask what’s holding them back. Are they nervous? Do they need help making the
appointment? Are they worried about transportation? Would they feel more comfortable
having someone come along?
Often, practical support and a familiar face can make an appointment feel much more
manageable.
A Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver may be able to provide transportation, help keep track of
appointments, accompany a senior to a visit, or simply offer reassuring companionship before
and afterward.
And if you’re the one who’s been putting off a screening, give yourself the same
encouragement you’d offer someone you love. Make the call, put the appointment on your
calendar, and ask someone you trust to come along if you’d like the company.
Make Your Health a Priority
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an important reminder, but caring for our health is a year-
round commitment. Screening can help doctors find breast cancer earlier, when treatment may
be more effective.
This October, ask yourself: Am I up to date on my recommended screenings? Is there an
appointment I’ve been meaning to schedule? Is there someone I love who might need a ride, a
reminder, or a little encouragement?
Talk with your doctor or healthcare provider about your individual breast cancer risk and the
screening schedule that’s right for you. And if getting to appointments or managing everyday
responsibilities has become more challenging, your local Seniors Helping Seniors® team may be
able to lend a helping hand.
Sometimes, taking care of ourselves starts with something as simple as putting that next
appointment on the calendar.