How to Get Involved in Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Most of us have at least one friend or family member who has been impacted by breast cancer, or you may have been diagnosed with breast cancer yourself. Even if neither is true, there is still much to be gained – and much that you can do for others who are impacted – by getting involved in Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October. Below, you’ll find ideas on how to participate in Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Washington, D.C. and McLean, VA from board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Alex Mesbahi and the caring team at Mesbahi Plastic Surgery.

Do breast implants cause breast cancer?

Before we get into Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is important to address the question of if breast implants cause breast cancer. The simple answer is no. Breast implants are FDA-approved devices and are not shown to increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer. Certain types of textured breast implants (which are no longer used) have been tied to a form of lymphoma known as BIA-ALCL, though this is still rare. Fortunately, most cases of BIA-ALCL are treatable and curable once the implants are removed.

One positive tie between breast implants and breast cancer is that breast implants are often used in breast reconstruction surgery to help women look and feel complete once again after a mastectomy or lumpectomy due to breast cancer.

Ideas for breast cancer awareness month

October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and is a fantastic time to get involved in initiatives to promote education, research, prevention, and treatment of breast cancer. Whether a monetary donation, hours spent volunteering, wearing pink, or simple acts of kindness to support those impacted directly or indirectly by breast cancer, all contributions are critical in raising awareness about various aspects of the disease. If you are interested in participating in Breast Cancer Awareness Month this year, consider these ideas:

• Donate: There are many foundations devoted to supporting breast cancer patients, doctors, research, and more, and a great deal of these foundations rely on, at least in part, donations. In the fight against breast cancer, every dollar helps.
• Join a walk-a-thon: Several breast cancer research and/or education foundations host annual breast cancer walks or runs in October to raise money and awareness alike.
• Spread the word: Simply posting messages on social media or talking to your friends and family about the importance of breast cancer screenings, including breast self-exams, can help the overall cause immensely.
• Support a patient and/or family: If you know someone (or know of someone) that may be directly or indirectly impacted by breast cancer, consider organizing a crowdfunding initiative, a meal train, or something else that may be helpful to them during a difficult time. Even sending a thoughtful card to let them know that you are thinking of them goes a long way.

While these are some of the most popular ways to support breast cancer awareness, there are countless more. In fact, anything you can do to help encourage women to undergo routine screening for breast cancer and support those who may be struggling with breast cancer in one way or another are invaluable contributions that are sure to make a difference.

Join the fight against breast cancer in Washington, D.C. this October

Breast cancer awareness is critical all year long, but October is a month that we can all do just a little bit extra to bring this important cause to the center stage. Join board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Alex Mesbahi and the compassionate team at Mesbahi Plastic Surgery in McLean, VA as we continue to find new ways to support breast cancer patients, women, and the entire breast cancer community.