Breast Cancer Awareness Month

The National Breast Cancer Foundation is Helping Women Now®

• Breast Cancer Basics

  No matter where you are in your health journey, a basic understanding of breast health and breast cancer is important. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer, have a loved one in treatment, or just want to learn more about the disease, the National Breast Cancer Foundation has free educational resources to support you.

  Downloadable Breast Cancer Glossary: Hearing the words, “You have breast cancer,” changes everything in a moment. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed or not know where to start. The National Breast Cancer Foundation's glossary of common breast cancer terms can help you feel more prepared and empowered as you enter the world of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

  BCAM Graphics Library: Knowledge is power. Knowing the facts surrounding breast cancer can help you prioritize your breast health, support a loved one in their breast health journey, or feel prepared when faced with a difficult discussion or diagnosis. View their library for more breast cancer facts and stats that you can easily share with loved ones or on social media.

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

• Signs & Symptoms

  Knowing the signs and symptoms of breast cancer can make the difference between an early diagnosis and one that’s too late. While not all breast cancer causes symptoms, it’s vital to know what to look for and how to look for it.

  Signs & Symptoms eBook
  From outlining what signs and symptoms to look for to explaining how to perform a breast self-exam, this free guide, written by a renowned breast cancer expert and physician, answers all of your signs and symptoms questions—even those you didn’t know you should ask.

  Breast Lump 101
  Did you know that there are many types of breast lumps, and many of them are non-cancerous? While all lumps should be checked by a doctor, knowing what types of lumps exist - and why - can equip you with the information you need when you need it.

• Early Detection

  Simply put, early detection saves lives. When caught in its earliest, localized stages, the 5-year relative survival rate for breast cancer is 99%. But what is early detection? Early detection means finding breast cancer at an early stage, before it has a chance to spread and is easier to treat.

  3 Steps to Early Detection Guide
  This newly revised and updated guide clearly explains the 3 steps involved in the early detection of breast cancer: breast self-awareness, well-woman exams, and mammograms. By regularly following these 3 steps, you can increase your chances of finding breast cancer at an early stage when it’s easiest to treat.

  Take the Mammogram Pledge
  The first step toward action is commitment. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, join over 10,000 women who have committed to prioritize their breast health through screenings and mammograms in the coming year. Take the Mammo Pledge now and receive vital screening information and support.

• Healthy Living

  One of the most effective ways to lower your risk of developing breast cancer is to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Since that is often easier said than done, these healthy living resources aim to give you the motivation and practical steps you need to make positive lifestyle changes.

  Healthy Living & Personal Risk Guide
  This newly updated guide explains the different risk factors for breast cancer and how you can help lower your risk. Use the included screening guidelines and personal risk assessment tool to help guide screening conversations with your healthcare provider.

  Smart Bites Cookbook
  Did you know that eating healthy is one of the best ways to lower your risk of developing breast and other types of cancer? Written by a clinical registered dietitian, the National Breast Cancer Foundation's free Smart Bites Cookbook offers 7 wholesome recipes with substitution options that are easy to prepare and can help boost your healthy eating.

  WellCats
  WellCats offers free group exercise classes, nutritional consultations, hands-on cooking classes with healthy recipes, health behavior change coaching, and wellness educational series to all benefits-eligible faculty and staff.

• Support

  TXST and the National Breast Cancer Foundation offer help and support when you need it most. Whether you need financial support to access quality care, emotional support to cope with a difficult diagnosis, or are a caregiver in need of information and encouragement, they have resources available for you.

  Financial Support
  The financial strain of a breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Click below to learn more about our financial support programs.

  • National Mammography Program: Early detection is vital. Find a free or low-cost mammogram in your area.
  • Patient Navigation Program: A patient navigator can help guide you through the complex cancer care system, including accessing financial services. Find a free patient navigator in your area.
  • Patient Relief Program: A breast cancer diagnosis often comes with unexpected costs. Learn how to apply for cost-of-living support as you undergo treatment.

  Emotional Support
  A breast cancer diagnosis is a life-altering moment that can create fear and uncertainty. NBCF is here for you during this difficult time, providing the emotional support you need when you need it most.

  • Support Group: Studies show that taking part in support groups is an effective way to reduce the stress and anxiety that can come with a breast cancer diagnosis. Join our virtual NBCF support group.
  • HOPE Kit: HOPE Kits are a tangible expression of hope, providing comfort and encouragement to women undergoing breast cancer treatment. Request a free HOPE Kit, or send one to a loved one.
  • Metastatic Breast Cancer Retreat: Those diagnosed with Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer face a unique and challenging set of circumstances. Learn more about NBCF Metastatic Breast Cancer Retreats.

  Caregiver Support
  Caregivers come in many forms, from spouses, partners, and adult children to other relatives, friends, and even neighbors. If you provide care and support to someone with cancer, we’re here to support you, too.

  • Cancer Caregiver Guide: This free guide will help you get organized as a caregiver, offer practical tips for caring for your loved one, and encourage you along the way.
  • What to Say to a Cancer Patient: It can be hard to know what to say when someone shares they have cancer. This free eBook offers practical tips on the do’s and don’ts of talking with someone about their diagnosis.
  • Just Diagnosed with Breast Cancer… Now What?: When someone is first diagnosed, everything is new. This free eBook helps you prepare with a glossary of common breast cancer terms, a list of questions to ask the doctor, and an overview of what the treatment process may look like.

  Bobcat Balance
  Bobcat Balance, TXST's Employee Assistance Program, provides free mental health counseling, financial and legal resources, and caregiver support to help you on your journey. Just dial the following number to get the help you need: 1.888.228.9831

• Additional Rescources

  "Know Your Lemons" 
  The “Know Your Lemons” app will guide you in breast self-assessment, keeping track of your condition according to your menses, visual examination, and much more.

  Breast Advocate^® 
  The Breast Advocate® App is the first shared decision-making app for breast cancer surgery and breast reconstruction. Co-created by breast cancer specialists and patient advocates, Breast Advocate® provides evidence-based information and customized recommendations based on your diagnosis, personal preferences, and values. 

  Pink Warrior Advocates
  Pink Warrior Advocates is a local non-profit focused on providing direct support to those who have been diagnosed with breast cancer by providing  resources, financial assistance, and most importantly, emotional support.