CREST HAVEN – October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Freeholder Kristine Gabor and the Board of Chosen Freeholders reminds the public.
The symbolic pink ribbon was first used by the Susan G. Komen Foundation and handed to participants in its New York City race for breast cancer survivors in 1991. There are now numerous events nation and worldwide to bring awareness of this disease that predominantly affects women but can affect men too.
There have been vast improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer through research and with early detection, many women will be counted among the survivors.
In celebration of the many breast cancer survivors and supporters in Cape May County, the Department of Health will be exhibiting a quilt, designed by former Health Department employee Dianne Notorfrancesco, which serves as a reminder that great strides have been made in the battle against breast cancer but that a cure is still needed. The quilt, signed by Cape May County cancer survivors and supporters, will be on display in the health department.
Also, the Health Department wants women to know the risk factors and symptoms of breast cancer and the importance of getting a mammogram every year starting at age 40.
“You cannot change your gender, race or age but you can take steps to change lifestyle choices that may put you at increased risk of developing breast cancer such as: lack of exercise, being overweight especially after menopause, hormone therapy after menopause and too much alcohol consumption,” said Kevin Thomas, Health Officer. Symptoms of breast cancer include: feeling a lump in the breast, swelling, nipple discharge, nipple retraction (turning inward), breast or nipple pain and skin irritation or dimpling.
Women 20 to 40 years of age should have a clinical breast exam done by their healthcare provider at least every 3 years and yearly at age 40 in conjunction with a mammogram. Women under the age of 40 should talk with their healthcare provider to establish if they are at risk and need a screening mammogram before the age of 40.
Since 1996, the Cape May County Department of Health has participated in the Cancer Education and Early Detection (CEED) program funded by the state and federal government. The program not only provides breast cancer screening but cervical, colon-rectal and prostate screening for low income uninsured or underinsured residents of Cape May County.
For information about the CEED program or to see if you qualify, call 609-465-1047.
Cape May – Governor Murphy says he doesn't know anything about the drones and doesn't know what they are doing but he does know that they are not dangerous. Does anyone feel better now?
