Pink October: Get a breast ultrasound exam this month

Hello month of everything pink! From pink ribbons to pink fashion to pink foods (you get the idea) all month long. If you're wondering why you tend to see lots of pink during this month, here's a brief explanation:

Pink October, also known as Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a worldwide campaign that takes place every (if you haven't guessed it already) October!

This is a time when many organisations come together to highlight the importance of early screening, educate the public, give support to those affected and to honour those who've survived.

All this, in conjunction with raising funds to aid the research that goes into this cause to determine the best treatment plan and hopefully, the cure.

According to multiple sources, breast cancer is most commonly found among one third of females in Malaysia alone. There are 1.38 million cases worldwide (one in eight women with the disease) and 500,000 deaths each year. And due to late diagnosis in advance stages of the disease, survival rates can be low.

Though it is a concerning statistic, it is one that can be lowered by just one simple action. Make an appointment with your doctor to get tested.

Methods for Breast Examination

There are many types of breast exams available in the market -- the most common being 3D Mammogram (X-ray) and ultrasound (sound waves).

Mammograms are not often used for women under 40 as younger women’s breast tissue can be dense which can make the x-ray image less clear so changes can be harder to identify. However, mammograms may still be needed to do a complete assessment.

So, ladies below the age of 40 can opt for an ultrasound exam if deemed fit. Do get advice from your doctor regarding this matter if any uncertainty arises.

Breast ultrasound is a non-invasive test (radiation-free) using high frequency sound waves that are bounced off the breast tissue to produce an image which will determine if there is suspicious mass, fluid filled cyst or just normal breast tissue.

Ultrasounds are normally used as a hand-in-hand after an abnormal finding on a mammogram, breast MRI or clinical breast exam.

Since ultrasounds don't require radiation, it is risk-free to women that are pregnant, breastfeeding or have breast implants.

Regardless of whichever test you do decide to go with, make sure to do your own research regarding the tests available, their pros and cons, gather the questions you may have and consult a professional on which course of action is best for you.

Please don't let finance be the issue as there are always options and offers from organisations that truly want to lend a hand.

For example, did you know LPPKN offers free cancer screening tests? (Only applicable for women over 40).

If you're interested, click here for more information. Furthermore, do regular self checks on yourself as our body experiences changes every month.

So by examining for physical or visual changes every so often, you're already one step ahead in taking care of the only body you have.

Ladies, take charge of your health today by getting yourself checked or join the community by participating in the events, supporting fellow females or donating to this great cause.

A little kindness goes a long way and here's a kind reminder that putting it off simply because "I don't have the time" can result in deadly consequences that we hope no one has to go through.

Encourage your friends and family or even a stranger to get tested today. Sharing is caring and for all you know, it could save a life.

If you know someone who could use a little pick-me-up or if you’d just like to surprise a fellow survivor with some love during this pink month do check out our amazing Pink Sale that's happening from 1st - 31st October.

Get 10% off selected flowers while you still can! Here are a few options to get your pink vibes going with all shades of pink!