Give a HOOT, Find a Cure (for Breast Cancer)! Published Sept. 16, 2014 By Capt. Darci Parker 5th Medical Group MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Every October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. It is a time to remember those who have fought a hard fight against breast cancer and to celebrate those survivors who are still with us today. It is also a time to celebrate the great strides in research that are being made to find a cure. The American Cancer Society estimates 232,670 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2014 with 40,000 deaths resulting from this disease. It is estimated that one in eight women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime. Depending on your risk of breast cancer, screening guidelines may vary. Follow up with your health care provider to discuss your personal risk of breast cancer, when to initiate screening and how often to perform screenings. Routine mammograms can be completed at either St Alexius Medical Center by calling 701-857-8081 or Trinity Medical Arts Clinic at 701-857-2640. You are not required to have a referral to make this appointment. It is now recommended that women ages 50-74 have a mammogram completed once every two years unless otherwise advised by their physician. Monthly self-breast exams can be an important screening tool. Here are some things to look for when you are doing your breast exam: · A hard lump or thickening in the breast · Change in the size of your breast · Itchy scales on your nipple · Nipple discharge · Breast skin changes to include swelling , warmth, redness or darkened skin · Dimpling or puckering of the breast · Pain in one area of the breast that doesn't go away. Schedule an appointment with your health care provider if you have any of the above warning signs. Although there are no definitive breast cancer prevention strategies, there are some things that increase your risk of breast cancer. About 5 to 10 percent of breast cancers are thought to be hereditary. Women and men who have a significant family history of breast cancer may carry a gene mutation that puts them at a greater risk for breast cancer. If you feel you have a significant family history of breast cancer, talk with your health care provider about whether you are eligible for genetic testing. There are several other risk factors for breast cancer. Women have a 100 times greater chance of developing breast cancer than men. Not having children, not having children before the age of 35 years old, not breastfeeding, being obese and reaching menopause after the age of 55 can increase your risk. As you age your risk also increases. Two out of three breast cancers are in women over the age of 55. The 5th Medical Group is hosting its annual Breast Cancer Awareness luncheon at the Jimmy Doolittle Center Oct. 7, 2014. A health and vendor fair, a free event for anyone who can access the base, will be held before and after the luncheon from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. The luncheon is from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Connie Busch, Lead Mammographer at Trinity, will speak on "Breast Imaging: from past to present and where we are heading." Additionally, Russell Gust, Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer, will speak on his experience working with cancer patients in a whole new way, assisting them in improving strength, energy and overall quality of life. Last year, our luncheon raised $3,914 for the Combined Federal Campaign organization in support of breast cancer research. This year, we hope to match or exceed that amount. An auction of donated quilts from local guilds, as well as a silent auction of themed baskets, will take place during the luncheon. If you would like to attend the luncheon, please RSVP by calling Toni Freeman at 723-5135 or Darla Helgeson at 723-5103 by Oct. 2, 2014. The prices are $10 for members and $12 for non-members. Choice of menu is Grilled Chicken Panini with Cheesy Tortilla Soup or Soho Salad.