It is estimated that 12% of women will develop breast cancer during their lives. And every individual’s
experience with breast cancer is unique.
There are a variety of resources available that aim to offer information and support. Each resource has a guide or program that may fit your needs better than another.
If you or a loved one is affected by breast cancer, continue reading for helpful online resources on prevention, early detection, and support.
Prevention and Early Detection
Breast cancer can be overwhelming for individuals waiting on mammogram results, with a family history, or have been previously affected by the disease. However, staying educated and creating an early detection plan can lessen the worry in these situations.
- The National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. offers early detection resources that outline everything from signs and symptoms to mammogram information. The foundation’s website also offers easy facility location for mammograms, ultrasounds, breast exams, and more.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers a National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, which provides low-income, uninsured, and underserved women screening and diagnostic services.
- The American Cancer Society has a comprehensive guide to breast cancer prevention and early detection that outlines the major risk factors, prevention methods, and screening options.
Living with Breast Cancer
Whether you are hoping to gain a better understanding of the disease or connect with a friend or family member affected by breast cancer, online support is available for every point in your journey.
- Beyond the Shock is an online guide for women diagnosed with breast cancer, resource for loved ones, and tool for doctors to share information. Created by the National Breast Cancer Foundation, this website offers a question-and-answer platform, video series about the disease, and stories from those affected.
- Living Beyond Breast Cancer offers online, phone, and in-person programs and services for those living with breast cancer. The organization also offers comprehensive guides to early-stage breast cancer, metastatic breast cancer, and more.
- The Susan G. Komen Foundation offers a glossary of local support groups, as well as a helpline that can put you in touch with nearby services. If you’re unsure what kind of support group to look for, this website also offers a guide to finding the right group.
Supporting a Loved One
Everyone’s coping experience is different. Whether you’re looking to attend classes with your loved one, manage their pain, or support the cause as a whole, there are support resources available for caretakers, friends, and family in each unique situation.
- I Can Cope Online is a free program run by the American Cancer Society for individuals, family members, and friends. This educational program offers classes on a variety of topics, from relieving cancer pain to managing cancer-related fatigue.
- CancerCare offers free support services, information and resources for caregivers and loved ones. Some services the organization provides include counseling, support groups and workshops.
- The National Breast Cancer Foundation also has resources for those looking to get involved. If you’d like to join the fight against breast cancer, there are opportunities to donate, fundraise or volunteer.
Grief Support
If you’ve experienced a loss and are seeking support, take a look at our Grief Library for reading materials and our calendar of events to find a support group or program near you. Or, we invite you to contact Busch at any time with questions.
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