“You have cancer” are three words that never fails to change someone’s life permanently. As of the beginning of 2021, there has been a report of approximately 281,550 new cases of invasive breast cancer and approximately 49,290 new cases of non-invasive breast cancer. Aside from the count of cases, approximately more than 38 million women have a history of breast cancer- including those who are undergoing treatment and finished treatment. Breast cancer is the most common cancer to be treated for and occurs when some cells in the breast grow abnormally and rapidly divide and accumulate into a lump. The process of the breast cancer cells growing and spreading outside the tissue reflects the number of invasive cases. Breast cancer can appear due to genetic mutations and aging in women’s bodies. It can be common for a woman to have breast cancer due to their family history of a first-degree relative but 85% of breast cancer occurs in women without a family history.
Breast cancer symptoms and next steps
It is recommended for women to check both breasts with their hands for any lumps. The best way to do so is by raising one arm behind their head to allow the breast tissue to expand and using the base of their three consecutive middle fingers from the opposite hand to gently press into the breast in a circular motion starting from 12 o’clock around to 9 o’clock. Check the glands around the nipple and the nipple itself for any lumps and squeeze to check for any discharge. Don’t forget the underarms, too! To be cautious, it is best to get a mammogram which is an x-ray picture of the breast. Symptoms that may occur if breast cancer is present are lumps in the breast or underarms; thickening or swelling occurring on any part of the breast; irritation or dimpling on the breast; redness or flaky skin on the nipple area or breast; or any pain on the nipple. If any of these symptoms occur, it is crucial to check in with a doctor immediately.
The rise of AnaOno
Dana Donofree, a breast cancer survivor, and the creator of AnaOno. She made a change in many women’s lives by providing them the opportunity of living comfortably in their own skin. AnaOno is an undergarment brand that focuses on the needs and wants of breast cancer survivors when it comes to daily wear. There are specialized bra designs for women who have different body types that range from having implants, mastectomies, lumpectomies, and as well for different treatments women may experience. AnaOno is also active within the breast cancer community and partners with Pink Warrior Advocates and Living Beyond Breast Cancer to help support women who need additional resources, education, and community support. AnaOno is a brand that is expanding and advancing to best support all survivors worldwide.
Find Dana everywhere online at anaono.com
Listen to our podcast episode with Dana: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/between-both-cheeks/id1494645707#episodeGuid=Buzzsprout-9218922
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