October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and normally Hardy County’s breast cancer survivors and caregivers would gather at Love Memorial Clinic in Moorefield to celebrate life and, at the same time, remember those who lost the battle with the dreaded disease.
Not so this year.
COVID-19 has forced a change in plans. Instead of a lively gathering, with food and fellowship, Love Memorial Clinic is encouraging residents and businesses to Paint The Town Pink.
Wear pink. Decorate your home or business. Help raise awareness and spread hope. Awareness is power.
This year, more than 1,300 West Virginia women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Seven of those will be in Hardy County.
Breast cancer still remains the most commonly diagnosed type of cancer in women. One in eight West Virginia women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.
Early detection saves lives. While deaths from breast cancer have declined, people with breast cancer have a better chance of survival if it is found early and treated. Getting regular screening mammograms lowers the risk of dying from breast cancer.
It is recommended that women perform breast self examinations beginning in their teens. BSE can detect lumps or irregularities in the breast tissue. If you feel something unusual, contact your health care professional immediately.
Women between the ages of 25 and 40 should have screening mammograms every three years.
Women older than 40 should have screening mammograms every year.
The West Virginia Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program provides assistance to women who are not insured or who are underinsured. Call 304-558-5388 or 1-800-642-8522.