MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Breast cancer doesn’t discriminate.
For some, it lurks, slowly developing in an effort to wear them down. For others it’s aggressive, and wreaks havoc on their bodies and will to go on.
October is Breast Cancer and Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Moody’s awareness effort climaxed with a Pink and Purple Luncheon, Oct. 19, 2017, here.
“The purpose of the [luncheon] was to educate and celebrate both men and women who have been impacted as victims and survivors of breast cancer or domestic violence,” said Capt. Ayanna Glenn, 23d Medical Group. “Early detection can prevent health problems from occurring, and catching diseases in an early, treatable stage, can significantly improve the length and quality of your life.”
According to the American Cancer Society, death rates from female breast cancer dropped 39 percent from 1989 to 2015. These decreases are credited to finding breast cancer in earlier stages through screening and increased awareness, as well as better treatments.
“Had I not gone back for a follow-up, I would not be alive,” said U.S. Air Force Ret. Master Sgt. Latonia Knight, 23d Medical Group program analyst. “It is vital that women of all ages are aware of the importance of early detection and diagnosis. Due to the density of my breasts, my oncologist said I probably wouldn't have felt the lumps until it was too late.”
Knight was 37 years-old when she was diagnosed. The American Cancer Society and the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologist recommend women begin getting routine mammograms at 40, but Knight decided to get one earlier because of pain she’d experienced in her breasts. The initial mammogram showed nothing, but she was called in for a routine follow up six-months later.
After putting it off for a while, a friend forced her to make the appointment and she was diagnosed with breast cancer.
“Awareness is so important to me because I wasn’t going to go back,” said Knight. “The persistence of my health provider pushing me to get the early mammogram and ultra sound saved my life.”
A lot of survivors use this month and its events as an opportunity to share their stories and encourage others. But others help organize events like this because they feel the information presented could save lives.
Glenn also added that breast cancer is sometimes found after symptoms appear, but many women with breast cancer never feel or see any symptoms.
“I am the first person in my family to have breast cancer and the message I want to get out is don’t think it can’t happen to you,” said Knight. “If you think something is wrong, go get checked.”
Though symptoms can sometimes be elusive, another factor that can help determine whether a patient is at risk is family history.
“Know your family history of cancer and notify your provider at medical appointments of your family history,” Glenn added.
Anyone with questions about breast cancer screening should contact the 23d Medical Group at 229-257-2778 and request to speak to a Wellness Nurse for appointment booking or a referral for a mammogram.