Blog: Breast Cancer Awareness Month: What Canadians Should Know
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight one of the most common cancers affecting Canadians. According to the Canadian Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. While it is far less common in men, it can still occur
Understanding Risk Factors
Breast cancer doesn’t have a single cause. Instead, it develops from a combination of factors:
- Age – Risk increases as you get older.
- Family history – Having a close relative with breast cancer may increase risk.
- Genetics – Inherited mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2 play a role.
- Lifestyle factors – Lack of exercise, smoking, alcohol, and poor diet can add to risk.
- Hormonal factors – Starting periods early, late menopause, or hormone replacement therapy may increase risk.
It’s important to remember that having risk factors doesn’t mean you’ll develop breast cancer, but awareness helps you take steps to lower risk.
Why Early Detection Matters
When breast cancer is found early, treatment is often more effective, and survival rates are higher. Ways to stay proactive:
- Screening mammograms – Recommended for women aged 50 to 74 every two years in Ontario (or earlier if you’re high risk).
- Breast self-awareness – Know what’s normal for your body and report any unusual changes (lumps, skin changes, nipple discharge) to your doctor.
- Regular check-ups – Health professionals can identify concerns you might overlook.
Pharmacists’ Role in Breast Cancer Care
Pharmacists are often the most accessible healthcare professionals, and at Dundas West Pharmacy, we support patients at every stage of their journey. We can help by:
- Medication management – Explaining how to take prescriptions properly, including chemotherapy pills or hormone therapies.
- Side effect support – Recommending remedies for nausea, fatigue, or hot flashes caused by treatments.
- Counselling on supplements and interactions – Ensuring vitamins or natural products don’t interfere with prescribed medications.
- Providing emotional support – Sometimes, a simple conversation at the pharmacy counter can make a difference.
How You Can Take Action This October
- Book your mammogram if you’re due for screening.
- Encourage a loved one to check in on their breast health.
- Support awareness campaigns and local organizations funding research.
- Talk to your pharmacist about medications, side effects, or prevention strategies.
Breast cancer awareness is more than wearing pink in October; it’s about education, prevention, and community support. At Dundas West Pharmacy, we are committed to helping our community stay informed and empowered about their health.
This month, take time to learn, share, and check in. Your actions today can make a difference tomorrow.
