By Sarah McMinn, Contributing Writer
The month of October celebrates Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a crucial time dedicated to educating communities about breast cancer and advocating for early detection and prevention.
At Saint Leo University, students are encouraged to play an active role in spreading awareness about this vital issue, which affects millions globally.
Breast cancer is not just a concern for older adults; it can impact individuals of all ages, including young college students.
According to Julie “Paige” Porter, a registered nurse and wellness instructor at Saint Leo, understanding key risk factors is essential for promoting awareness.
“Students should know that, while women are at a higher risk, men can also develop breast cancer. Additionally, factors such as age, family history, and lifestyle choices–including diet and exercise–all contribute to one’s risk,” said Porter.
Understanding these risk factors can empower students to engage in early detection methods. Regular self-exams and awareness of preventive measures significantly improve treatment outcomes.
“Awareness is crucial. The earlier we detect potential issues, the better the chances for successful treatment,” Porter emphasizes.
Saint Leo students have a multitude of opportunities to raise awareness on campus. Hosting events is a powerful way to engage peers. The Wellness Center and Student Activities Building provide platforms for workshops, lectures, and community walks throughout October.
“These events not only educate, but also foster a sense of community,” says Porter.
In addition to events, students can leverage their leadership roles within clubs and organizations to start conversations about breast cancer.
“Peer engagement is vital. Using social media can also amplify these conversations—creating campus-wide hashtags or sharing information on official university pages can help spread the message,” said Porter.
Peer support is a cornerstone of student life at Saint Leo. By cultivating open dialogues about health issues, students can encourage one another to prioritize their well-being.
“Support groups and clubs can provide safe spaces for discussions about breast cancer, fostering an environment where students feel comfortable speaking up,” said Porter.
Students can also take advantage of the Wellness Center’s health education programs by becoming peer educators.
“Peer educators play a crucial role in leading workshops on breast cancer awareness and promoting healthy living. They are often more relatable to their peers and can make discussions feel less intimidating,” Porter adds.
While there are many ways to promote awareness, challenges remain. Some students may feel uncomfortable discussing health issues with friends, or may perceive breast cancer as a distant concern relevant only to older adults.
“We need to break down these barriers,” Porter insists. “Creating a culture of health consciousness requires everyone to be proactive and informed.”
Saint Leo offers numerous resources to support student health.
The Wellness Center provides education on women’s health and breast cancer awareness, while Health Services can guide students to local clinics for mammograms and preventive checks. For emotional support, Counseling and Prevention Services provides assistance to those affected by breast cancer, either personally or through loved ones.
National organizations, like breastcancer.org and The American Cancer Society, also provide comprehensive online resources, making it easier for students to stay informed.
The pink ribbon is a universal symbol of breast cancer awareness, chosen for its association with femininity and compassion. It represents the fight against breast cancer and promotes solidarity among those affected. Over the years, the pink ribbon has prompted discussions, fundraising, and support for research and treatment efforts. (Photo was taken by Sarah McMinn).
Understanding breast cancer and its prevention is critical for all Saint Leo students. While the risk may be higher for older women, establishing healthy habits and awareness during college can have lasting benefits.
“By fostering a culture of support and early detection on campus, we can make a significant impact on our community’s health,” Porter concludes.
As we embrace October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let’s commit to becoming informed advocates for ourselves and each other, ensuring that awareness translates into action within our university community.
