Joining the Pink Revolution this October, Samantha Wong outlines some of the risk factors to avoid and warning signs to watch out for
Photos Courtesy of: Unsplash
Breast cancer has been the most common cancer affecting women in Hong Kong since 1993, it’s the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths, and over 4,000 new cases are reported each year. The median age of breast cancer patients here is 58; women over 40 are most at risk.
Early detection means less physical and emotional trauma and, most importantly, the best chance of survival. Women aged 40 to 50 should ensure that they are examined by a doctor every other year, and every year after the age of 50.
The most common sign of breast cancer is a hard lump in the breast or under the armpit. Other signs include any kind of change in the breast, such as a change in size or skin colour, and nipple discharge, bleeding or retraction.
On turning 30, women should start examining themselves every month. This is best done a week after menstruation, and a good place to do it is in the shower. Ensure you feel both sides of the breasts and into the armpit two or three times with three fingers. You may find it easiest to have one hand above your head and feel the breast that side with the opposite hand and vice versa.
RISK FACTORS
Most breast cancer cases occur in women over 40. Women who have children after the age of 30, who’ve never been pregnant or who’ve never breastfed are also at risk. Just 10% of all breast cancer is genetic but women with a family history of the disease will want to be especially vigilant.
To reduce the risk of breast cancer, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is vital – stick to a low-fat, high-fibre diet and make sure you exercise regularly. Anything that greatly increases levels of oestrogen in the blood, for instance excessive consumption of fatty foods and extended use of birth control pills, should be avoided. Smokers, drinkers, women who are overweight or suffer from a great amount of stress are putting themselves at risk.
THE PINK REVOLUTION
Hong Kong Cancer Fund is the city’s largest cancer support organisation, providing free information and professional care to anyone living with or affected by cancer. Hong Kong Cancer Fund’s services are free. Its work encompasses counselling, dietetic and nursing consultations, home care and peer support, plus public education and funding of hospital equipment and cancer research.
Every October, Hong Kong Cancer Fund joins organisations around the world to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of breast awareness, education and care services.
As part of this month-long campaign, you are asked to wear pink on October 21 to raise vital awareness and support for the charity’s free breast cancer services. Another way to do your bit? Create your own personalised fundraising page for a special event or activity through which you can invite friends, family or colleagues to donate directly to Hong Kong Cancer Fund.
To get involved, visit www.cancer-fund.org.