Breast Cancer Awareness Month: For Women Globally.

Breast Cancer is a type of cancer that predominantly affects women. One in eight women will receive a diagnosis of breast cancer. It affects women of all races and is most prevalent in women over 50 years of age. There are risk factors such as age, genetics, medication, and environmental exposure to certain toxins that can increase or exacerbate risk.

Risk factors can vary depending on race, environment, and culture. For example, a study by the World Cancer Research Fund attributed the drinking culture in Britain to the higher incidence of breast cancer in women. This was compared to women in East Africa where women have virtually no exposure to alcohol. The highest incidence rates are in women in the West including the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, and Canada. However, ethnic women in western countries are also at a greater risk. The World Health Organization (WHO) attributes this increased risk in the West to the lifestyle.

Regardless of location, women should be taught to be aware of any changes in the breast. For some women it is uncomfortable touching or looking at their bodies, so health educators have begun to address this through creative resources that are inclusive to all women.