Breast Cancer Awareness in NEPA

Breast cancer touches the lives of so many people in our community.

Did you know that breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed among women in the United States? Chances are, you or someone you care about has been impacted by this disease. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Griswold Home Care for NEPA stands with those affected and is dedicated to raising awareness about early detection and prevention.

Griswold offers non-medical home care for people living at home, in assisted living, or aging in place. Whether you or a loved one needs a Caregiver for a few hours, 24 hours, several days, or live-in support, we are here to help you Live Assured. Read on to learn breast cancer screening tips, find local resources in NEPA, and see Griswold can provide compassionate care.

Recognizing Signs & Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of breast cancer is a crucial first step in prevention. Early detection can save lives, and there are several simple steps you can take to stay vigilant. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• A lump or mass in the breast or underarm
• Changes such as swelling, redness, or dippling of the skin
• Nipple abnormalities like discharge, scaliness, or retraction (when the nipple turns inward)
• Changes in the size or shape of the breast

Remember, a lump is not the only sign of breast cancer. Other subtle changes can be important, too. If you notice any unusual changes, don’t wait. Contact your healthcare provider.

Preventing Breast Cancer

Breast cancer screening plays an important role in detecting the disease in people who do not have symptoms. Early detection through screening often leads to finding breast cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage. Multiple methods exist for both preventing and screening for breast cancer. Here’s a breakdown of different tests:

• Mammogram (Mammography): An x-ray picture of the breast that can detect tumors too small to be felt. It is recommended every 1-2 years for women starting at age 40, or earlier for those with higher risk.
• Breast MRI: A Magnetic Resonance Imaging test that uses radio waves that take detailed pictures of the breast. They are used for people at higher risk, sometimes with a mammogram.
• Clinical Breast Exam: A physical exam done by a healthcare provider, who will examine the breasts and underarms for lumps or abnormalities. While helpful, a clinical breast exam alone is not enough for comprehensive screening and should be combined with mammography or other imaging.
• Breast Self-Exam: Regular self-checks are important so you can acknowledge any unusual changes and report them to your doctor right away. While self-exams are not a substitute for professional screening, they are an important step in being proactive about your health.

Breast cancer screening allows cancers to be detected before symptoms appear. This enables earlier treatment and increases the chances of successful outcomes.

Breast Cancer Resources In NEPA

Looking for local help or support? Check out these trusted breast cancer resources in NEPA:

The Northeast Regional Cancer Institute Community-Based Cancer Screening Navigation Program helps low income, uninsured, and underinsured individuals who are not up to date with breast, cervical, colon and lung cancer screenings. Their goal is to help individuals with early prevention. If you would like to learn more about the Navigation Program, please contact the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute.

The Cancer Wellness Center of NEPA is deeply committed to fulfilling its mission of providing support and resources to cancer patients and their families. They understand that battling cancer goes beyond medical treatments; it encompasses emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects as well. They offer support groups that provide a safe space to share experiences, exchange advice, and offer emotional support. The Breast Cancer Support Group meets on the 3rd Monday of the Month at 5 PM. This group is open to all who have been diagnosed with or affected by breast cancer and are looking for support and encouragement. This group meets at our in-person facility. If you are interested in joining one or more of their support groups, please call (570) 714-8800.

Griswold Can Help

At Griswold Home Care for NEPA, we are here to support seniors and their families not just during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but all year long. Our compassionate Caregivers can help by:

• Providing transportation to and from appointments for checkups, screenings, support groups, or preventive care
• Offering respite care for family Caregivers who need a break or time to recharge
• Assisting with personal care, homemaking, companionship, and additional non-medical care services

Contact Us

If you live in Luzerne or Lackawanna Counties, or the surrounding areas of NEPA, give us a call today! We are happy to put together a personalized care plan for you and provide support so that you or a loved one can continue living at home.