Breast Cancer Awareness Perks to Be Aware Of

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. While I think we're so oversaturated with days and months dedicated to a specific disease—there are more than 150 health observances, according to this website—that the efforts may be counterproductive, I'm impressed by all the offerings over the next few weeks for breast cancer survivors and those concerned about preventing the disease.

Breast cancer patients can get a complimentary assessment with a medical device called L-Dex to check for signs of lymphedema, a swelling that occurs in the arm following breast cancer treatments, at various Susan G. Komen Foundation events. Some states like Connecticut and Delaware are offering mobile mammography events for women to get screened, and hospitals like St. Vincent's in New York City will be offering free screenings on October 17, which is National Mammography Day.

America Online has even gotten into the act with this Web page providing basic ways to educate yourself about your own risk and what to expect when you get a mammogram. Oh, and don't forget to check out the U.S. News site on breast cancer and our archive of articles to update you on the latest breast cancer news—even when it's not October.

If you're into pink, the signature color of breast cancer activists, then you can accessorize to the hilt with proceeds going toward breast cancer research organizations. You can also participate in an American Cancer Society walk in your local area to raise research funds. And if you're interested in some hope and inspiration, read about 68-year-old Audrey Gonzalez, who managed to climb Mount Everest three months after her treatment ended.