Breast Cancer Awareness in Fort Lauderdale

Each year in the United States, roughly 270,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, marking the perfect time to provide educational resources and local resources here in Broward that can help you. This is an international health initiative that promotes screening and reducing the risk of the disease.

Did you know that breast cancer is the 2nd most common cancer found in American women? The best way to detect the disease early is by getting a mammogram. After you turn 40, you should plan to get an annual mammogram. They help find cancer before it is big enough to feel or cause symptoms.

Common symptoms include:

• Changes in the size or shape of the breast
• Pain in the breast
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk
• A new lump in the breast or underarm

Uncommon Facts About Breast Cancer

While the general education around breast cancer has increased in recent years, there are still several things you may not know about the disease. Read below for some not-well-known facts about the disease.

• Breast cancer doesn’t always appear as a lump
• Your chances of developing the disease are increased if you have a male relative who’s had it
• Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce your risk
• You don’t need to learn how to do a breast self-exam
• Drinking alcohol can increase your risk

Resources in Broward County

Florida Breast Cancer Foundation is a nonprofit founded in 1993 by three Miami women. Their mission is to end breast cancer through research, education, and advocacy. They provide information on medical services, financial assistance, lodging, therapy, insurance information, and other support resources provided in Broward County.

Broward Health is a healthcare provider with hospitals and facilities throughout the county. Through the Broward Health Foundation, they provide breast cancer services throughout the region. They support the Lisa Boccard Fund. A fund started to support a local resident and her fight against breast cancer. They have been able to screen over 2,000 women since their founding.

Florida Health supports the Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. This program enables women to receive free breast and cervical cancer screenings at various locations in Broward and Martin counties.

Gilda’s Club South Florida is a local organization that offers free programs to cancer patients and their families. This includes support groups, healthy lifestyle workshops, social activities, educational lectures, and community resource information.

Griswold Can Help

If you are currently recovering from breast cancer in Fort Lauderdale, Pembroke Pines, Plantation, or the surrounding areas, Griswold can help. Our referred Caregivers may offer homemaking, personal care, companionship, and more services. We also offer live-in care if you need a Caregiver to be available around the clock. Interested in learning more? Give us a call today! We’d be happy to discuss how our care can fit with your recovery.

License ID: NR30211028