In 2016, there are expected to be approximately 250,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer diagnosed in men and women in the United States. Women make up the vast majority of these patients; it’s the second most commonly diagnosed cancer among females, next to only skin cancer. Many of us personally know or know of somebody who has been affected by this terrible disease.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we at Elemental are showing our support by offering a variety of specials and events throughout the course of the month. Proceeds from donations on select medicine and accessories will benefit breastcancerfund.org, which focuses on “exposing and eliminating the environmental causes of breast cancer.”

According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime. Though researchers have yet to identify a sure-fire method of preventing breast cancer, maintaining a healthy diet, limiting alcohol intake, and routine physical activity are all linked to low risk of developing it.

Early detection of abnormalities is paramount; studies have indicated survival rates increase substantially the quicker they’re identified. Symptoms may include, but aren’t limited to:

-Breast pain

-Breast swelling

-Skin irritation on breast

-Lump in underarm area

-Nipple discharge

-Nipple turning inward

 

CancerCare recommends that women at high risk schedule a yearly mammogram, which is capable of detecting the disease “up to two years before the tumor can be felt by you or your doctor.”

From October 1st thru October 31st, Elemental will be offering Breast Cancer Awareness t-shirts and ribbons for purchase--all proceeds go directly to breastcancerfund.org. A portion of monthly donations on a soon-to-be-announced featured strain will also go toward supporting the organization.

In addition to our month-long initiatives, on Sunday, October 23rd, we’re hooking our members up with a special ‘Spa Day.’ From 11 a.m - 4  p.m., enjoy the spoils of being a member at the Bay Area’s best collective: free pink roses, massages, educational literature, and much more! Additionally, a few of our compassionate providers, Sacred Medicinals and Kind Medicine, will be joining us to help promote awareness.

Stay tuned for additional details in the weeks leading up to our Spa Day, as we’re still scheduling additional vendors and services!

Be well and hope to see you at the Center soon!