Breast Cancer Awareness Month

This Article is written by Laila Khutab, Year 10

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women, affecting one in eight at some point in their lifetime. Worldwide, breast cancer still ranks as one of the leading causes of cancer death.

Due to intricate interplay between lifestyle, reproductive, and genetic risk factors, breast cancer develops as a result of mutations in breast cells. Ageing, benign breast disorders, lifestyle variables (obesity, drinking, and smoking), reproductive issues, and hormone exposure have all been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Family history contributes to 5–10% of breast cancer cases, and mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes are the most frequent cause of hereditary breast cancer. However, our understanding of the genetic makeup of breast cancer and how it develops is still limited.

Over the past 40 years, advances in precision medicine have increased patient survival rates, while innovations in screening techniques such as mammography have led to earlier cancer identification. In spite of this, metastatic illness in women is still fatal. Additionally, treatment is complicated by global and social disparities, ethnic variances, and the molecular complexity of breast malignancies. Many women experience recurrences of illness. This necessitates a comprehensive approach to the care and treatment of breast cancer.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed each October to raise awareness of the threats and challenges that breast cancer poses, as well as to celebrate advances in prevention, detection, and treatment that may one day result in a cure for this deadly condition.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, making it more crucial than ever to make sure you get tested if you notice any signs. Breast screening services have officially resumed after being essentially suspended during lockdown. In the UK, breast cancer affects more women than any other type of cancer, with one woman being diagnosed every ten minutes. In the UK, breast cancer will strike one in every seven women at some point in their lives. The earlier cancer is detected, as with all cancers, the greater the likelihood of a successful course of therapy. It's crucial to periodically check your breasts for any symptoms and visit your doctor if you notice any changes. It's vital to get anything unusual checked out, as most breast changes are not cancer-related, and recognizing an unexpected change doesn't necessarily mean you have breast cancer.

Head Boy David Vellinga proudly sporting an all-pink outfit

Realizing that many struggle with such issues and bringing awareness to the cause is very important. To show our support for those struggling with the ailment, Kent College held a dress down day on October 28th, in which both students and staff were encouraged to “go crazy”, and wear as much pink as possible. Additionally, every Thursday of the month of October, staff were encouraged to wear pink or to wear a pink ribbon badge, which is the symbol for breast cancer awareness.