Pink October raises awareness of breast cancer – an awful disease that affects millions of women around the world every year. Are you and/or the women in your life carrying out these important checks?
Why Pink October is important
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer worldwide, affecting millions of women every year. And this type of cancer is rising in younger women.
The disease touches us all, not just the female half of the population. I challenge you to find an adult who doesn’t have a friend, loved one or colleague who has suffered from the disease.
Early detection is absolutely key to reducing deaths from breast cancer. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) in the US ‘When caught in its earliest, localized stages, the 5-year relative survival rate of breast cancer is 99%.’
So while some naysayers are against the pink ribbons that appear in October as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, most sufferers and medical practitioners agree that it’s a crucial campaign that raises awareness of the disease and plays an important part in increasing early detection rates.
With that in mind, here are three checks you – or the women in your life – should do to ensure the best possible chance of beating breast cancer.
Check yourself
Regular breast self-examination should be an integral part of every woman’s health and hygiene routine.
There is a plethora of information out there for those who don’t know how to go about it, like this free, downloadable booklet from the National Breast Cancer Foundation in the US.
Any abnormalities such as lumps or changes in the breast, should be followed up with a visit to the doctor. Most of the time, these will not be indicative of breast cancer however anything unusual should definitely not be ignored.
Get checked
Early detection saves lives, and one of the best ways to catch breast cancer in its early stages is through regular mammograms. Women should not only consult a doctor if they notice anything unusual but also follow guidelines for routine mammography screenings.
In the UK, for example, anyone female and registered with a GP will be invited for free screenings every three years between the ages of 50 and 71. For women considered to be at higher risk—whether due to family history or other factors—more frequent screenings may be recommended.
While most women agree that a mammogram isn’t particularly pleasant, and it can be momentarily painful, most mammographers are very experienced at putting nervous patients at ease. Please don’t let embarrassment or fear prevent you from getting this potentially lifesaving procedure.
Check your insurance
Expatriate women living in Asia may not be eligible for free mammograms, but your health is not something to scrimp and save on.
We recommend that all expats have a comprehensive medical insurance policy, not only to cover unexpected health issues, including cancer, but also to provide access to important preventative measures, including mammograms.
Finding the right medical insurance
Infinity’s financial advisers provide quality health insurance designed for all budgets, with premiums the same as going directly to the insurance companies.
You’ll not only benefit from our independent advice, product comparisons and technical advice but we also provide ongoing service support for your medical care needs.
We have partnerships with the best international insurers, but we are tied to none – enabling us to select the best plan for you and your family at the best price.
If you’d like to protect your health and ensure that you have timely access to mammograms and breast cancer treatment, should you need it, contact us for a free, no-obligation chat.
A leading provider of expat financial services and wealth management services across Asia.
