October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In Montana, more than 700 women develop breast cancer every year. Treatment for breast cancer is most effective if the cancer is caught at an early stage, so it is important for women to talk to their doctors about breast cancer screenings. 

To ensure Montana women have every tool available, the Montana Cancer Control Programs (MCCP) will spend the month of October educating women about getting regular breast cancer screenings, the current national recommendations for breast cancer screening, and about making healthy lifestyle choices to help lower the likelihood of breast cancer. Throughout the month, local cancer control programs across Montana will conduct community education and outreach activities focused on breast cancer.

“Getting screened is one of the best ways for women to beat breast cancer,” said DPHHS Director Richard Opper. “Furthermore, engaging in healthy activities, like not using tobacco and getting regular exercise, are also significant. MCCP works in conjunction with local governments, medical providers, other health care organizations, and local businesses to ensure that the best information and resources are available for Montanans.”

MCCP will be using Facebook to expand awareness and educate Montana women about breast cancer prevention and screening. You can “like” DPHHS on their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/MTDPHHS