Know the facts
Breast cancer can affect women and men. Learning about symptoms, risk, and screening helps you have informed conversations with a healthcare professional.
Learn about changes →HOPE · STRENGTH · TOGETHER
Together, we can
make a difference.
Awareness can start a conversation. Support can lighten the journey. Knowledge can help people take their next step.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month — awareness matters all year long.
Wear pink · Share trusted information · Support patients and caregivers · Honor survivors · Remember those we've lost
LEARN · UNDERSTAND · SHARE
Awareness is a powerful first step.
Breast cancer affects people in different ways. Reliable information and compassionate support can help people make informed decisions and feel less alone.
Early detection
Screening can find some cancers before symptoms appear. The right timing depends on your age, personal history, and level of risk.
Explore screening →Lead with kindness
Every person's experience is different. Listening, asking what would help, and respecting their choices can make a real difference.
Ways to support →BE AWARE OF YOUR BODY
Changes worth checking
Most breast changes are not cancer, but new or unusual changes should be discussed with a healthcare professional—even after a recent normal mammogram.
01
A new lump or thickening
In the breast or underarm, whether or not it hurts.
02
Changes in shape or size
New swelling or a change that feels unusual for you.
03
Skin changes
Dimpling, puckering, redness, scaling, or thickening.
04
Nipple changes
A newly inverted nipple or discharge that is not breast milk.
Important: This page cannot diagnose a condition. If you notice a new or persistent change, contact a healthcare professional. If you feel something unusual, don't wait for your next screening appointment.
MAKE A PLAN THAT FITS YOU
Screening starts with a conversation.
Mammograms are breast X-rays that can help detect cancer before symptoms appear. Recommendations vary by age and individual risk, so talk with a healthcare professional about when to begin and how often to screen.
- Share your personal and family health history.
- Ask about benefits, limitations, and follow-up steps.
- If you have symptoms, ask about diagnostic evaluation rather than waiting for routine screening.
Your health. Your questions. Your care.
It's okay to ask questions, request explanations, or bring someone you trust to an appointment.
Self-awareness is useful, but breast self-exams alone are not a substitute for recommended screening.
SHOW UP WITH COMPASSION
Support can take many forms.
You don't need perfect words to be there for someone. Small, practical gestures can help people feel cared for.
Listen without fixing
Let them lead the conversation. Avoid assumptions and give them room for every feeling.
Offer something specific
Try “Can I bring dinner Thursday?” or “Would a ride to your appointment help?”
Keep checking in
A short message after treatment, during appointments, or on an ordinary day can mean a lot.
TRUSTED INFORMATION
Keep learning. Find support.
These established organizations offer more information about breast cancer, screening, treatment, and support.
National Cancer InstituteBreast cancer information, symptoms, screening, and diagnosis.Visit site ↗
American Cancer SocietyGuidance about breast cancer, early detection, and care.Visit site ↗
Susan G. KomenEducation, support, and resources for people affected by breast cancer.Visit site ↗
Centers for Disease Control and PreventionPublic health information about breast cancer and screening.Visit site ↗
HOPE · STRENGTH · TOGETHER
Awareness today.
Support every day.
Share what you learn. Check in on someone. Make space for hope.
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