October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and this year’s theme — “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters” — reminds us that behind every diagnosis is a person. A story. A journey of courage, resilience, and hope.
As the World Health Organization (WHO) puts it:

“Every breast cancer diagnosis is personal… this theme reminds us that every journey deserves compassion, dignity, and support.”

And that message hits home. Because breast cancer doesn’t look the same for everyone — but it does touch so many lives.
– 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.
– In 2025, an estimated 316,950 women and 2,800 men will face invasive breast cancer.
– Another 59,080 will be diagnosed with non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer.
– There are currently over 3.8 million survivors in the U.S.
– And, on average, every 2 minutes, a woman in the U.S. is diagnosed.

Those numbers are a powerful reminder: early detection saves lives.

Mammograms: Getting It Done (and Done Right)

We’ve all heard it — “early detection is key.” But actually getting that mammogram? Sometimes that’s the hardest part.

Between the cost, confusion about referrals, and just not knowing where to start, it can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be.
According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF):
– If you’re under 40, you may need a doctor’s referral.
– If you’re 40 or older, you usually can schedule your screening mammogram directly — no referral needed.

Here’s what to ask for:
– Screening mammogram – your routine yearly check when you have no symptoms.
– Diagnostic mammogram – for any symptoms or follow-up on a previous abnormal result.
Tip: Diagnostic mammograms can cost more, so if you’re paying out of pocket, double-check pricing before your appointment.
Let’s Talk Ta-Tas (Yes, We’re Going There)

Alright, before we go further, fair warning: we’re talking about the girls. The twins. Your ta-tas.

If that makes you squeamish… well, so does breast cancer. So let’s get comfortable being a little uncomfortable, because this part? It’s important.

Self-exams are your front line of defense — quick, easy, and something only you can do. No one knows your body better than you.

Here’s how to make it a habit:
– Do your self-exam once a month.
– Pick a date you’ll remember — the 1st, the 15th, whatever works.

And remember: self-exams don’t replace mammograms, they’re just another layer of awareness.

1. Visual inspection: With your shirt and bra removed, stand in front of a mirror. Put your arms down by your sides. Look for any changes in breast shape, breast swelling, dimpling in the skin, or changes in the nipples. Next, raise your arms high overhead and look for the same things. Finally, put your hands on your hips and press firmly to make your chest muscles flex. Look for the same changes again. Be sure to look at both breasts.

2. Manual inspection while standing up: With your shirt and bra removed, use your right hand to examine your left breast, then vice versa. With the pads of your three middle fingers, press on every part of one breast. Use light pressure, then medium, then firm. Feel for any lumps, thick spots, or other changes. A circular pattern may help you make sure you hit every spot. Then, press the tissue under the arm. Be sure to check under the areola and then squeeze the nipple gently to check for discharge. Repeat the steps on the other side of your body.

3. Manual inspection while lying down: When you lie down, your breast tissue spreads more evenly. This is a good position to feel for changes, especially if your breasts are large. Lie down and put a pillow under your right shoulder. Place your right arm behind your head. Using your left hand, apply the same technique as step 2, using the pads of your fingers to press all parts of the breast tissue and under your arm. Finally, swap the pillow to the other side, and check the other breast and armpit. Be sure to check under the areola and then squeeze the nipple gently to check for discharge.

Results and Follow-Up:
When should I call my doctor about something I find in my breast self-exam?

If you find a lump or any other worrisome changes, stay calm. Most self-exam findings are not signs of breast cancer. But you should still call your healthcare provider if you notice any:
– Change in the look, feel, or size of the breast.
– Change in the look or feel of the nipple.
– Dimpling or puckering of the skin.
– Lump, hard knot, or thick spot in the breast tissue.
– Nipple discharge.
– Nipple or other area pulling inward.
– Pain in one spot that won’t go away.
– Rash on the nipple.
– Swelling of one or both breasts.
– Warmth, redness, or dark spots on the skin.

Don’t panic — most lumps are not cancerous — but do call your doctor.

There you have it. Once again, a self-exam should never replace your regular screenings with your doctor. If you have a 4 or higher at the front of your age, remember that you should be getting yearly mammograms or whatever your PCP recommends.

UPMC’s $55 Mammogram Offer

Cost should never keep you from taking care of yourself.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, UPMC Magee-Womens in North Central Pa. is offering $55 mammograms for those without insurance or with limited coverage.

Dates & Locations:
– UPMC Muncy, 215 E. Water St. — Saturday, Oct. 25, 8 a.m.–noon. Call 570-321-2545.
– UPMC Wellsboro, 32 Central Ave. — Wednesday, Oct. 22, 6 a.m.–5:45 p.m. Call 570-723-0160.
• Appointments are limited and must be prepaid by cash or check.
• When scheduling, mention “$55 mammogram.”
• Learn more: UPMC.com/MammoNCPA

A Final Thought

“Pink Out” events may feel a little quieter this year, but awareness doesn’t end with wearing a ribbon.

Before donating or buying pink products, do your homework — not every organization puts your dollars where you think they’re going. Support charities that truly fund research, treatment, and patient care.

And please — schedule your mammogram, do your self-exam, and encourage your friends to do the same. Because every story is unique — and every journey does matter.