From 2009-2013, the National Cancer Institute recorded an age-adjusted rate of 117.3 cases per 100,000 people in Fort Bend County, and an average annual count of 350 cases of breast cancer. The rate of cases has remained stable, according to the institute. Men can develop breast cancer, though not as commonly as women.
Beyond the pink ribbon displays and paraphernalia on store shelves, here are a few ways residents can get involved in local activities and initiatives to improve awareness, health and funding to fight breast cancer.
Education
Kelsey-Seybold Clinic is offering a free webinar Oct. 5 at noon titled “Breast Cancer: 6 Myth's Busted.” Those interested can register online. Health professionals will discuss misconceptions such as the age at which women are at risk, the impact of family history on the likelihood of cancer, and life expectancy with the disease.
People in the Katy area can attend A Night of Positively Pink at LaCenterra on Oct. 21. From 6-9 p.m., Houston Methodist Hospital’s Breast Cancer Center team will offer breast health information and giveaways as well as live music and snacks. The event takes place at 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd., Katy. Registration for the event can be done online.
Low-cost wellness exams
Some clinics and health facilities around the Greater Houston area offer free or low-cost mammograms to those who qualify. University of Texas Medical Branch’s Regional Maternal Child Health Program at 14823 Hwy. 59, Sugar Land, and AccessHealth, located at 400 Austin Street, Richmond, offer reduced cost exams by appointment.
Awareness & fundraising
In support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, CHI St. Luke’s Health is bringing back its campaign to raise funds for education, research and treatment.
CHI St. Luke's Health—Sugar Land is selling flamingos for $15 t display in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.[/caption]The hospital system is selling pink lawn flamingos for $15 that residents can display in support of this effort. The flamingos can be purchased for $15 at the CHI St. Luke’s Health—Sugar Land Hospital, and proceeds benefit the St. Luke's Foundation, according to Tymika Morrison, CHI St. Luke’s Health spokesperson.
In addition, Kelsey-Seybold clinic locations and administrative building will be lit in pink each evening. This includes the Fort Bend Medical Diagnostic Center in Sugar Land, the Pearland Clinic and the Cinco Ranch Clinic in Katy.
