"We Think Pink...Do You?"

Heather Blanchard, Executive Director of Susan G. Komen-For the Cure Acadiana, says, “Always Think Pink. We Think Pink...do you?” Blanchard was the guest speaker at last week’s Kiwanis meeting where she spoke about Breast Cancer to a room filled with mostly males.
Blanchard spoke about Breast Cancer-both in men and women, facts, treatments, and certain things to know about breast cancer.
Blanchard noted, “Yes, men can get breast cancer.”
According to researched breast cancer information, Blanchard added, “Since men have breast tissue, they can get breast cancer. But, breast cancer in men is rare.
“About one percent of all breast cancer cases in the U.S. occur in men. Also, 410 men in the U.S. are expected to die from breast cancer.”
Known factors that increase the risk of male breast cancer include: *Klinefelter’s sydrome (a genetic condition related to high levels of estrogen in the body), * BRCA2 gene mutation, *family history of breast cancer (especially with a BRCA2 mutation), * getting older, * chronic liver disorders, * heavy alcohol use, * obesity and * exposure to large amounts of radiation early in life.
With October approaching, and recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness month, Blanchard encouraged all women to have yearly mammograms. “1 out of 8 women are diagnosed with breast cancer. The key to breast cancer survival is early detection,”
Louisiana is ranked third in the nation for breast cancers, and also ranked third in mortality. “The Susan G. Komen foundation is one of the largest private funders for breast cancer research.”
Some of the things one needs to know about breast cancer:
*Know your risk- talk to your family about your health history.
* Get screened- get a mammogram and clinical breast exam every year starting at age 40 if your are at average risk.
* Know what is normal for you
* Make healthy lifestyle choices- Maintain a healthy weight, add exercise to your routine, limit alcohol intake.
Blanchard serves 14 La. parishes and 25% of all fundraising proceeds goes to research funding.
For more information, visit: www.komen.org