As many of us know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. You see pink ribbons, shoes, towels, helmets and more — all in support of bringing light to breast cancer and the people it has affected.

While we try to show support to the millions affected by this disease, remember for some it might have a different meaning. For some, October is a reminder of loss, pain and change or maybe even growth.

Each person is different, and each experience is unique. So, when you think about Breast Cancer Awareness Month, think about why it is important and why it has become an international health campaign.

According to the American Cancer Society, it is estimated that 316,950 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 59,080 of ductal carcinoma in situ will be diagnosed in women and 2,800 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in men during the 2025 year.

This disease is believed to affect over 2.3 million women worldwide and that is what led to the international desire to bring awareness and support to those diagnosed with breast cancer.

This month is designed to educate people about the disease, encourage women to go for regular breast cancer screenings starting at the age of 40 (or earlier if recommended) and help raise money to fund breast cancer research.

Unfortunately, as we age the likelihood of developing breast cancer increases. Some older adults believe once they reach a certain age, screenings are no longer necessary and tend not to take their medical professionals seriously when they talk about the importance of continuing these tests. Age is a factor when discussing some forms of breast cancer.

According to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, the median age of breast cancer diagnosis is 63 and nearly 20% of women diagnosed are over the age of 75.

These statistics show that screenings should not be put off. And remember, no matter your gender, do not ignore symptoms you might have.

Men often overlook their risk and fail to report symptoms because they believe only women are affected by this disease. While more women are diagnosed and it is a rare diagnosis in men, the reality is any gender or race can be diagnosed with breast cancer.

Also, while discussing screenings, let’s not just limit it to breast cancer because it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. When a screening is recommended, even if it’s not one you look forward to — can we say colonoscopy anyone? — just remember the tests are recommended for a reason.

If you need information to push you to follow through with your screenings, talk to your doctor. Find out why it is important and then maybe you won’t put it off.

Try to be proactive instead of reactive.

Mallory Wiand is the Wellness and HEAP coordinator at Direction Home of Eastern Ohio. Contact the office at 330-505-2300 for information regarding senior-based services and opportunities in the Mahoning Valley.