Breast cancer is one of the most common diseases among American women. The best way to detect breast cancer early is to make sure you’re getting your annual breast imaging exam. Symptoms and precursors of breast cancer are more easily treated when diagnosed in the earliest stages.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month aims to increase the public’s awareness about the condition. Here are some of the best resources to help increase your own awareness, or to help others who have been diagnosed with the disease.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer may have different symptoms. However, some of the most common symptoms may include:
- Change in the shape or size of the breast
- Pain in the breast
- Nipple discharge, including blood
- A foreign lump in the underarm
If you notice any signs mentioned above, consult your health professional right away.
Top 10 Resources for Anyone Affected By Breast Cancer
1. Educational Guides
The National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) delivers educational and comprehensive information on healthy living and breast health. NBCF has numerous online guides and resources that aim to empower women with useful information. All these resources help people understand the importance of detecting symptoms on time and prepare patients for getting a mammogram.
2. Patient Navigator Program
The patient navigator program from the National Breast Cancer Foundation is a proactive approach to help cancer patients overcome barriers like fear, high costs, and misinformation surrounding possible prevention.
3. National Mammography Program
The National Mammography Program provides funds and grants to various facilities in the US. It helps people afford the expenses of diagnostic mammograms, screening, clinical breast exams, and ultrasounds. Note that patients need to qualify to get these grants.
4. National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program
The program is an initiative by the CDC and aims to provide access to various screening services of breast cancer to many underserved women in throughout the United States.
5. The American Cancer Society
ACS or the American Cancer Society, provides women with low-cost mammograms free of cost. The organization also provides financial assistance based on location. All you need to do is visit the ACS’s website, click on the “about us” page, and choose the state you live in. It will direct you to the local resources available in that state.
6. Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Program
BCCTP is a state program that Medicaid funds to provide financial assistance and free healthcare during the treatment. Patients can find the program in all states. If interested, contact your local hospital to speak to the patient navigator regarding the treatment program.
7. Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition
The CFAC refers to a coalition of different organizations that aim to reduce the financial burden on patients during cancer treatment. Patients need to visit the CFAC site and select their desired assistance type. Enter your city’s zip code to obtain the resources located in the area.
8. The Patient Access Network Foundation
The PAN Foundation offers assistance to breast cancer patients in order to help lessen financial barriers for treatment, medications, and travel expenses.
9. Mammography Facility Database
The Mammography Facility Database receives information from FDA-approved accredited bodies including the American College of Radiology. The data is updated and revised periodically to provide patients with facility recommendations so they can find the closest mammography services.
10. Local Hospitals
Call the local hospital to speak to a patient navigator, social worker, or nurse navigator. They can refer you to different local financial assistance plans and programs for cancer treatment.
Summing Up
All in all, breast cancer is treatable with timely diagnosis. The resources mentioned above can help you learn more about the disease and seek financial assistance if needed.
Links
https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/about-breast-cancer/early-detection/breast-cancer-resources