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You've likely started seeing the telltale pink ribbon everywhere; October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This health condition is the second most common type of cancer for females. If you're a woman over the age of 40, now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment with your gynecologist, nurse midwife, nurse practitioner or physician assistant to speak with them about setting up a breast exam schedule. Here is more information about this crucial appointment as well as some steps you can take to protect yourself and the women you love from this disease.

Why Is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month So Important?

Unfortunately, one in eight women will experience breast cancer at some point during their lifetime. Furthermore, in its later stages, this disease can be fatal. Additionally, if you've already had breast or ovarian cancer, or have a female family member who has, your risk of developing it is heightened. To combat this dangerous disease, the National Breast Cancer Foundation® designated October as a month dedicated to raising awareness and encouraging women to get breast exams, which have been a powerful tool in lowering the mortality rate.

What Can You Do?

breast examBreast Cancer Awareness Month is an event everyone of all ages and gender identities can participate in. Have an open discussion with your loved ones about the importance of scheduling regular breast exams, and share the statistics to emphasize the seriousness of the illness. If you're a woman between the ages of 40 and 49 or know someone who is, now is the time to speak with a doctor about your personal level of risk so they can help you develop an individualized plan to monitor your health. Women between the ages of 50 and 74 should be receiving breast exams once every two years; if you haven't been doing this, now is the perfect time to start. Prevention is the best weapon health care professionals and patients alike have against cancer.

If it’s time for your next breast exam, contact Oswego County OB-GYN, in Oswego and Fulton, NY, today. They have been dedicated to women’s health since 1960 and offer a wide range of services, including preventative care and family planning assistance. To learn more, call (315) 343-2590 or visit them online today.

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