Quincy Reporter

In an Oct. 1 Facebook post, State Sen. Jil Tracy (R-Quincey) pointed out that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

"October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer," the senator said. "More information is available at https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/our-programs/."

In her Facebook post, Sen. Tracy shared a link to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, which offers a variety of programs and support for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis.  The organization's programs include: a patient navigation program, a national mammography program, Hope Kits, retreats for individuals with metastatic breast cancer, support groups, as well as education and research. 

Doctors use several tests to determine if an individual may have breast cancer. Those include ultrasounds of the breast and surrounding tissue, diagnostic mammograms, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the breast and biopsies, which remove fluid or tissue for examination. 

"According to the American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is detected early, and is in the localized stage, the five-year relative survival rate is 99%," the National Breast Cancer Foundation said. "Early detection includes doing monthly breast self-exams and scheduling regular clinical breast exams and mammograms. "