During October, Air Force Materiel Command will be promoting Breast Cancer and Prostate Cancer Awareness. This is an excellent time to educate individuals about breast and prostate cancer and promote screening. Knowing about these diseases and what you can do can save your life.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 8 women in the United States will get breast cancer. Men can also be diagnosed with breast cancer, but this is rare. Breast cancer can occur at any age, but it is more likely to occur after age 40. Family history and unhealthy lifestyle behaviors may increase a women’s chance of having breast cancer. Screening for breast cancer includes mammograms, breast exams by a physician, and self breast exams. Your doctor can help you decide when and how often to be screened.
The CDC reports that approximately 1 out of 6 American men are diagnosed with prostate cancer. Men have an increased risk of getting prostate cancer if they have a family history of the disease, are African-American, or if they are 50 years old or older. Screening for prostate cancer includes the PSA blood test and digital rectal exam by a physician.
Throughout October, Civilian Health Promotion Services will be offering health education briefings on breast and prostate cancer risk factors, symptoms, screenings, and things you can do to reduce your cancer risk. For more information, contact your local CHPS team or visit www.afmcwellness.com.
