Beyond the Pink Ribbon: Understanding Breast Cancer from Awareness to Action

Written By Monika Balejko

October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a crucial time dedicated to raising awareness about a disease that touches millions of lives worldwide. As a wellness advocate, I believe that knowledge is power, and understanding breast cancer from statistics to prevention, early detection to meaningful support can truly save lives. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about breast cancer awareness and how you can make a real difference.

The Numbers That Matter: Understanding Breast Cancer Statistics

Let's start with some eye-opening statistics that highlight why breast cancer awareness is so vital. Breast cancer is truly a global health concern that affects millions of people worldwide, regardless of where they live.

The Global Picture

Globally, cancer is among the leading causes of death, with nearly 20 million new cancer cases and 9.7 million cancer-related deaths worldwide in 2022. Breast cancer represents a significant portion of these cases. In fact, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide, with millions of new cases each year.

Australia's Statistics

Here in Australia, the numbers are particularly significant. In 2024, approximately 21,194 people have been diagnosed with breast cancer - 20,973 women and 221 men. The risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer over a lifetime is 1 in 7 for women and 1 in 556 for men.

The incidence of breast cancer in Australia has risen dramatically over the past 30 years, from about 9,832 new cases a year in 1994 to over 21,000 new cases a year in 2024. In 2024, it's estimated that 3,272 women and 36 men will die from breast cancer in Australia.

United States Statistics

In the United States, approximately 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lifetime. Each year, more than 300,000 new cases are diagnosed across the country. These numbers are sobering, but here's the encouraging part: when breast cancer is detected early, the 5-year survival rate is approximately 90%.

A Universal Concern

It's essential to recognise that breast cancer doesn't only affect women. While rare, men can develop breast cancer too, accounting for about 1% of all cases globally. Understanding that this disease affects diverse populations across all countries helps us approach awareness and support with inclusivity and compassion.

The Good News

Survival rates have improved dramatically over the past few decades in countries with strong screening programmes and healthcare systems. Thanks to advances in early detection methods, treatment options, and increased awareness, more people are surviving and thriving after diagnosis. This progress reminds us that our collective efforts in spreading awareness and supporting research truly do make a difference not just in one country, but worldwide.

5-year breast cancer survival rate for woman by stage at diagnosis

What Causes Breast Cancer? Understanding Your Risk

One of the most common questions I hear is: "What causes breast cancer?" The truth is, there's no single cause. Breast cancer develops through a complex interplay of genetic, hormonal, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Understanding these risk factors empowers us to make informed health choices.

Risk Factors Beyond Your Control

Some risk factors are simply part of our biology and personal history:

Age is one of the most significant factors - risk increases as we get older, with most breast cancers diagnosed in women over 50. Having a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, particularly in close relatives like mothers or sisters, can elevate your risk. Genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 are inherited factors that significantly increase susceptibility to breast cancer.

Other uncontrollable factors include having dense breast tissue (which can also make mammograms harder to read), experiencing early menstruation (before age 12) or late menopause (after age 55), and having received previous radiation therapy to the chest area, particularly during adolescence.

Risk Factors You Can Influence

While we can't change our genetics or age, several lifestyle factors may help reduce breast cancer risk:

Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition is important, as obesity has been linked to increased risk, particularly after menopause. Regular physical activity is protective - aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly. This could be brisk walking, swimming, cycling, or any activity that gets your heart rate up.

Limiting alcohol consumption is another key factor. Research suggests that even moderate drinking can increase risk, so keeping it to one drink per day or less is recommended. Avoiding tobacco products entirely supports not just breast health but overall wellness.

A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins provides your body with the nutrients it needs to function optimally. If you're able to and choose to, breastfeeding may also offer some protective benefits.

A Word About Empowerment

I want to emphasize something crucial here: understanding risk factors isn't about blame or guilt. It's about empowerment. While we cannot eliminate all risk, we can make informed choices that support our overall health and wellbeing. If you have concerns about your personal risk factors, have an open conversation with your healthcare provider about appropriate screening schedules and preventive strategies.

The Life-Saving Practice: How to Perform a Breast Self-Exam

Breast self-examination is one of the most powerful tools for early detection, and it's completely free and accessible to everyone. While mammograms remain the gold standard for screening, regular self-exams help you become intimately familiar with your breast tissue, making it easier to notice changes promptly.

When to Perform Your Self-Exam

Consistency is key. Perform self-exams monthly, ideally a few days after your period ends when breasts are least likely to be swollen or tender. If you no longer menstruate, choose a consistent day each month (perhaps the first of the month or your birthday) to make it a habit you won't forget.

Note for Australian readers: BreastScreen Australia offers free mammogram screening for women aged 40 and over, with invitations sent to women aged 50-74 every two years. Don't forget to book your screening alongside your monthly self-exams!

The Three-Step Self-Exam Method

Step One: In the Shower

Start in the shower where soap and water help your hands glide smoothly over your skin. Using the pads of your three middle fingers (not your fingertips or palms), make small circular motions with varying pressure (light, medium, and firm) to feel different depths of breast tissue.

Cover the entire breast and armpit area systematically, moving in an up-and-down pattern like you're mowing a lawn. Make sure to examine from your collarbone down to the bottom of your ribs, and from your armpit across to your cleavage. Don't rush this process - thoroughness is more important than speed.

Step Two: Visual Examination in Front of a Mirror

Stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides. Look at your breasts carefully, noting their usual size, shape, and symmetry. Then raise your arms overhead and look again. Check for any changes in contour, any dimpling or puckering of the skin, redness, or changes in nipple position or appearance.

Turn from side to side to view your breasts from different angles. You're looking for anything that seems different from your normal. Remember, it's completely normal for breasts to be slightly different sizes. You're looking for new changes, not naturally occurring asymmetry.

Step Three: Lying Down Examination

Lie down and place a pillow under your right shoulder, then put your right arm behind your head. This position spreads breast tissue evenly across your chest wall, making it easier to feel.

Using your left hand, examine your right breast using the same circular motion and varying pressure you used in the shower. Systematically cover the entire breast area. Then repeat the process on your left breast, placing the pillow under your left shoulder and using your right hand to examine.

What You're Looking For

During your self-exam, be alert for:

  • Any new lumps or areas of thickening that feel different from surrounding tissue

  • Changes in breast size or shape that seem unusual for you

  • Skin changes including dimpling, puckering, redness, or texture changes

  • Nipple discharge other than breast milk, especially if it's clear, bloody, or occurs without squeezing

  • Nipple changes such as inversion (turning inward), changes in position, or unusual appearance

  • Persistent pain in one specific area that doesn't seem to be related to your menstrual cycle

  • Swelling or rash around the breast or underarm area

An Important Reminder

Here's something I always tell my readers: most breast changes are NOT cancer. Many women have naturally lumpy or "fibrocystic" breasts, and hormonal changes throughout your cycle can cause normal variations in how your breasts feel. However, any new or concerning change warrants a conversation with your healthcare provider.

Don't let fear prevent you from getting changes checked out. It's always better to have something examined and receive peace of mind than to worry in silence. Your doctor would much rather see you for a benign concern than have you delay seeking care for something serious.

Why Support Matters: The Human Side of Breast Cancer

Beyond statistics and medical facts lies the profound human experience of breast cancer. A diagnosis affects far more than physical health. It impacts emotional wellbeing, relationships, financial stability, career, and every aspect of daily life. This is precisely why support isn't just helpful; it's absolutely essential to healing and recovery.

The Impact of Emotional Support

Feelings of isolation and fear are common after a breast cancer diagnosis. Strong support systems significantly reduce anxiety and depression while improving overall quality of life. Research has shown that patients with robust support networks often cope better with treatment side effects and may even experience better outcomes.

When someone feels truly supported (seen, heard, and valued) they're better equipped to navigate the complex decisions about treatment, handle the physical challenges of therapy, and maintain hope during uncertain times.

Practical Support Makes a Difference

Beyond emotional support, practical assistance is invaluable. Treatment can be exhausting, and managing everyday responsibilities becomes overwhelming. Help with transportation to appointments, meal preparation, housework, childcare, or even just running errands removes significant stressors and allows patients to focus their energy on healing.

Supporting the Whole Circle

It's important to recognise that breast cancer doesn't just affect patients—it profoundly impacts families, caregivers, partners, and close friends. These loved ones experience their own emotional journey, often while trying to stay strong for the patient. Creating a culture of support means acknowledging and caring for everyone affected by this disease.

Making a Real Difference: How to Support

Understanding why support matters is one thing; knowing how to provide meaningful support is another. Let me share some practical, impactful ways you can make a genuine difference.

Supporting Someone Who's Been Diagnosed

Be Present and Listen: Sometimes the most powerful support is simply being there. Listen without trying to fix their problems, minimize their concerns, or compare their experience to someone else's cancer journey. Let them express their feelings—whether that's fear, anger, sadness, or even humor—without judgment. Your attentive presence means more than you might realize.

Offer Specific, Actionable Help: General offers like "let me know if you need anything" are well-intentioned but rarely result in requests for help. People dealing with cancer often don't have the energy to think about what they need and then ask for it. Instead, be specific: "I'm making lasagna this week—can I bring you some on Tuesday?" or "I'm free Thursday afternoon—would it help if I drove you to your appointment?"

Handle Practical Tasks: Offer to pick up groceries, do laundry, mow the lawn, walk their dog, or care for their children. These concrete actions remove burdens from their plate and show your commitment to helping.

Maintain Consistency: Support is needed throughout the entire journey, not just immediately after diagnosis. The initial period often brings an outpouring of support, but as months pass, that attention typically fades just when ongoing support becomes even more crucial. Check in regularly, send thoughtful texts, drop off care packages, or simply stop by for short visits. Consistent presence shows you're there for the long haul.

Respect Boundaries and Privacy: Follow their lead on how much they want to discuss their diagnosis and treatment. Some people find it therapeutic to talk openly; others prefer to maintain privacy. Never share their medical information with others without explicit permission. Respect their choices about treatment, lifestyle, and how they're managing their diagnosis—even if you might choose differently.

Other Meaningful Ways to Create Impact

Support Research and Organizations: Donate to reputable breast cancer research organizations. In Australia, organizations like the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA), and Cancer Council support research and patient programs. In the US, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and Susan G. Komen do similar vital work. Globally, many countries have their own breast cancer charities funding critical research, patient assistance programs, and free screening services for underserved communities.

Spread Accurate Awareness: Share evidence-based information about prevention and early detection through your social media platforms, community groups, or workplace. Combat misinformation and help ensure people have access to reliable health information.

Participate and Advocate: Join awareness events, fundraising walks, or virtual campaigns. Use your voice to advocate for policies that improve healthcare access, insurance coverage for screenings and treatment, and support services for patients and families.

Encourage Screening: Gently remind the women in your life about the importance of regular mammograms and self-exams. Sometimes people need that friendly nudge to prioritize their health and schedule appointments they've been putting off.

Workplace Support: If you're an employer or have influence in your workplace, consider implementing policies that support employees dealing with cancer—whether they're patients or caregivers. This might include flexible work arrangements, paid time off for medical appointments, or partnering with healthcare providers for on-site education or screening events.

Honor and Remember: Celebrate survivors' milestones and remember those who have passed. Whether it's acknowledging a friend's anniversary of completing treatment or participating in memorial events, these gestures honor the real human experiences behind the statistics.

Taking Action Today: Your Role in the Fight Against Breast Cancer

As we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let's remember that awareness without action is just information. True awareness means translating knowledge into tangible steps that protect our health and support our communities.

If you take away nothing else from this article, remember these four critical actions:

Schedule your screening appointment if you're due for a mammogram. Don't put it off. Early detection truly saves lives, and that appointment could be one of the most important things you do for yourself this year.

Start or maintain your monthly self-exam routine. Mark it on your calendar, set a phone reminder, or tie it to another monthly ritual. Five minutes once a month could make all the difference.

Share this information with someone who needs it—a friend, family member, colleague, or through your social media networks. You never know who might read something that prompts them to schedule that overdue screening or perform their first self-exam.

Offer meaningful support to someone navigating a breast cancer diagnosis. Whether through your presence, practical help, financial contribution to organizations, or advocacy work, your support matters profoundly.

Moving Forward Together

Breast cancer affects millions, but we're not powerless against it. Through education, early detection, research funding, and compassionate support, we're making real progress. Survival rates are improving. Treatments are becoming more effective and less toxic. Awareness is growing.

Behind every statistic is a person—someone's mother, sister, daughter, friend, partner, or colleague. Someone with hopes, dreams, fears, and people who love them. When we approach breast cancer awareness with this human-centered perspective, our actions become more meaningful and our commitment deepens.

This October and every month, let's commit to being informed, proactive, and supportive. Let's create a world where no one faces breast cancer alone, where early detection is accessible to all, and where continued research brings us ever closer to prevention and cure.

Together, we're stronger. Together, we're making a difference. Together, we're saving lives

Take Action Now: Resources for Western Australians

Take Action Now: Resources for Western Australians

Book Your Free Screening

BreastScreen WA provides free breast screening for women aged 40 and over. Screenings are particularly important for women aged 50-74, who receive automatic invitations every two years.

Find Your Nearest BreastScreen WA Location:

  • Perth Metro Locations: Visit BreastScreen WA Locations to find clinics in Perth CBD, Fremantle, Midland, Joondalup, and other metropolitan areas

  • Regional WA: Screening services are also available in Bunbury, Albany, Geraldton, Kalgoorlie, and other regional centres

  • Mobile Screening Units: Regular visits to remote and regional areas - check the website for schedules

To book your appointment:

Support Breast Cancer Research and Patients

Join Our Pink Power Fundraiser:

This October, our team is running the Pink Power Fundraiser - a special initiative to raise funds for breast cancer research and support. Throughout the month, we're offering exclusive discounts on wellness services, fun fitness challenges, and community events. Every dollar raised goes directly to supporting breast cancer organisations.

Other Ways to Donate:

Participate in Pink October initiatives across Perth and WA:

  • Mother's Day Classic – Annual walk/run supporting breast cancer research

  • Girls' Night In – Host a fundraising event with friends

  • Local community events throughout October - check with your local council and community groups

Get Support

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed:

  • Cancer Council WA Support Line: 13 11 20 (free, confidential information and support)

  • Breast Cancer Care WA: bccarewa.com.au – Support groups, counselling, and practical assistance

  • BCNA My Journey Kit: Free resource for newly diagnosed individuals – Read More Here

This article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any questions or concerns about your breast health, risk factors, and appropriate screening schedules.

Monika Balejko
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