# 5 | Breast Cancer Awareness: Knowledge, Action, and Empowerment
October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when the spotlight turns toward one of the most pressing health issues women face. Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women worldwide, but early detection and informed choices can make all the difference. At HER, we believe awareness must be paired with action because empowerment begins with knowing what we can do for our health today.
Why Awareness Still Matters
Despite decades of campaigns, too many women still delay screenings, dismiss symptoms, or feel lost in conflicting information. Cultural taboos, stigma, and fear all contribute to silence and silence can be dangerous. Raising awareness is not just about pink ribbons, it’s about changing outcomes through education and access to care.
Understanding the Risk
Breast cancer risk is shaped by a mix of genetics, hormones, and lifestyle factors. Family history and age are important, but so are modifiable factors such as diet, exercise, alcohol intake, and hormone exposure. Knowing your personal risk is the first step in taking meaningful action.
Actionable Steps for Breast Health
Here are evidence-based strategies every woman can start today:
Know your baseline. Learn what is normal for your breasts. Self-awareness, not just self-exam, helps you notice changes early.
Schedule regular screenings. Mammograms remain the gold standard for early detection. Speak to your healthcare provider about when to start and how often based on your age and risk factors.
Prioritise movement. Regular physical activity reduces breast cancer risk by helping regulate hormones and maintain a healthy body composition.
Be mindful of alcohol. Even small amounts of alcohol can increase risk. Cutting back is a tangible step toward prevention.
Nourish your body. A balanced diet rich in fibre, fruit, vegetables, and lean protein supports overall health and may reduce cancer risk.
Talk about hormones. If you are considering or already on menopause hormone therapy (MHT), discuss your personal risk profile with your doctor. Context and individualisation matter.
Don’t ignore symptoms. A new lump, changes in skin texture, nipple discharge, or persistent pain should always be checked by a professional. Most changes are not cancer, but timely review is crucial.
Awareness is not just about individual responsibility. It’s also about demanding systems that support women such as affordable screening programs, equitable access to care, and research that reflects women’s realities. HER exists to keep these conversations alive, to break down myths, and to make health actionable.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an invitation to know your risk, to take proactive steps, and to demand better for yourself and for women everywhere.