This October marks the 25th year of Breast Cancer Awareness month, an annual international health campaign organized by major breast cancer charities to increase awareness of the disease and to raise funds for research into its cause, prevention and cure. The campaign also offers information and support to those affected by breast cancer.
Lesbians and bisexual women tend to have more risk factors for breast cancer including nulliparity (having no children), higher rates of alcohol and cigarette use, hormone replacement therapy, and obesity. They are also less likely to see a doctor on a regular basis. This could be because of past negative experiences in the health care setting or fear of being treated differently because of sexual orientation. Another reason they are less likely to see a doctor is because they often have no need for birth control. Heterosexual women often have a full gynecological exam when seeking birth control, and it keeps them in regular touch with a doctor.
Men and Women are both at risk for breast cancer. Make sure to perform regular breast exams and consult your doctor.
Visit Susan G. Komen for the Cure for more information.
http://ww5.komen.org/understandingbreastcancerguide.html
