Dubai: Breast Cancer Survivors Fashion Show – with a Message
by Alex Lewis - Dubai
Daijiworld Media Network
Dubai, Nov 1: The 5th year of Fashion show from the survivors of Breast cancer was held on 31st October at 7.30 pm. in Burjuman center. Women who have fought their battle against breast cancer and survived were featured in this unique fashion show. Survivor’s model off the latest trends in fashion on the runway as a message of hope and strength.
There were emotional scenes after the fashion show as the survivors narrated their stories during the time of devastation and how their loved ones supported.
Venogopal Rajmony, The Indian Consul General of Dubai and his wife were Among the many distinguished personalities attended this Fashion Show.
Most people tend to shy away from the subject of cancer. That’s natural as often the thought process is if I talk about it, it may happen to me or this affects other people, not me. The reluctance to be aware or take the right steps to safeguard health often has tragic consequences. Specifically for breast cancer, the number of casualties is growing. It is known to be the world’s leading cause of cancer-related deaths for women aged 15 – 64. Men too are prone to this disease, but the percentage is much lower than women – currently it’s 1% of all breast caner related cases. Breast cancer can be devastating not just for the woman, but for the entire family. It’s important to be fully aware of the implications of this deadly disease.
What is breast cancer?
Very simply, when cells in the breast tissue divide and grow out of control they form a lump or mass called a tumour. Not all tumours are cancerous, but a cancerous tumour in the breast is called breast cancer. Except for skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women.
What causes breast cancer?
The causes of this disease are still not fully known, but medical research has identified a number of risk factors that can increase a woman’s chances of getting breast cancer. Knowing these risks is important. It can help you better understand your chances of developing breast cancer and also the steps that you need to take to protect yourself from it. However, what you must remember is that whilst some women have many risks, they may never get breast cancer whilst others with lesser risk may be diagnosed with the disease. Unfortunately the tow most well established risk factors are being a woman and getting older.
Top risk factors for breast cancer
- Being a woman
- Getting older
- Family or previous history of breast cancer
- Being overweight
- Not breast feeding
- No children or first child after 35
- Use of birth control pills
- Consuming more than one drink of alcohol per day
- Having your period before the age of 12
- Dense breast or high bone density
Reduce your risks make important lifestyle choices
Maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, limit alcohol and lastly remain aware about changes in you body.
Know what is normal for you
See a doctor immediately if you notice any of these changes:
Lump, hard knot or thickening (breast of underarm)
Swelling, warmth, redness or darkening
Change in size of shape of breast
Dimpling or puckering
Itch or rash especially in nipple area
Pulling in of your nipple or other parts of the breast
Nipple discharge that is spontaneous and bloody
A sore on the breast that does not heal
Three steps you can take to beat breast cancer
1. Annual mammography (breast X ray) from the age of 40 onwards
2. Clinical breast exam by your doctor every three years starting from age 20, and every year starting from age 40
3. Monthly breast self - examination
Early Detection Saves Lives.
If detected early, breast cancer can be treated successfully. Regular checks are important for every woman.
Stay alert. Stay Well.
Source: Safe and sound awareness programme
More details logon to: www.safeandsound.ae