Outubro Rosa

By Dr. Gi Rodrigues

Pink October: A Guide for the Brazilian Community in the United States

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, known worldwide as Pink October. For the Brazilian community living in the United States, especially in Florida, it is essential to know the resources available for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of this disease that affects thousands of women. This informative guide offers pathways for breast health care and support for patients and their families.

The Importance of Self-Examination and Prevention

Early detection of breast cancer significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. Breast self-examination is a simple and powerful tool that every woman can use to get to know her body and identify possible changes. It is recommended that self-examination be done monthly, a few days after the end of menstruation, when the breasts are less sensitive.

How to Perform a Self-Examination

Self-examination can be divided into three steps: in front of a mirror, standing (in the shower), and lying down. Observe your breasts with your arms down, raised, and with your hands on your hips, looking for changes in the shape, size, or appearance of the skin and nipples. During a shower, with soapy skin, use your opposite hand to feel your breast in circular motions, from top to bottom and from the center to the armpit. Lying down, repeat the palpation movement.

  Credit: Educational image about breast self-examination.

Digital Tools for Breast Health

Technology can be a great ally in breast cancer prevention. Several smartphone apps offer reminders for self-exams, step-by-step guides, and information about breast health. Some of the most popular and well-rated apps include Know Your Lemons, Feel For Your Life, and Daisy Wheel. These tools help create a self-care routine and keep a record of any changes observed.

Treatment Options in the United States

Breast cancer treatment in the United States is advanced and multidisciplinary, involving different medical specialties to provide the best possible care. Treatment options are personalized according to the type and stage of the cancer, and may include:

Renowned institutions such as Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and the Mayo Clinic are leaders in breast cancer treatment, offering the most modern therapies and clinical research.

Treatment Centers in Florida

For Brazilians residing in Florida, there are centers of excellence specializing in breast cancer. The Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami, the Orlando Health Cancer Institute, and the Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center in Jacksonville are leading institutions offering cutting-edge treatments and personalized care.

Support for Patients and Families

Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can be a challenging time for the patient and her family. Fortunately, there are numerous organizations in the United States that offer emotional, financial, and informational support. The Susan G. Komen Foundation and the American Cancer Society are two of the largest and best-known, with helplines, support groups, and financial assistance programs.

For family members and caregivers, organizations such as CancerCare and the National Breast Cancer Foundation offer specific resources, such as support groups and guides to help navigate the treatment journey. The DONNA Foundation and the Pink Fund are examples of institutions that provide financial assistance to cover expenses during treatment.

Specific Resources in Florida

The Florida Breast Cancer Foundation is a local organization founded in 1993, dedicated to supporting breast cancer patients through research, education, and support. The foundation offers resources in Spanish and has funded over $8 million in education and research in Florida. Another important organization is The Beautiful Gate Inc., which provides education, mammography screening, mental health support, and financial resources for women in Florida.

Credit: National Breast Cancer Foundation

Support from the Brazilian Community

For Brazilians in Florida, it's reassuring to know that resources are available both in Portuguese and in organizations that understand Brazilian culture. The Consulate General of Brazil offers assistance and guidance to Brazilians residing in South Florida. Additionally, clinics like VIP Walk-in Clinic in Orlando and Família Health in Broward County provide services to the Brazilian community.

Brazilian chambers of commerce, such as the Central Florida Brazilian American Chamber of Commerce (CFBACC) and the Brazilian-American Chamber of Commerce of Florida, can also serve as points of contact for information and support to the community

Brazilian Support Organizations

Even while residing in the United States, Brazilians can seek information and support from organizations in Brazil. FEMAMA (Brazilian Federation of Philanthropic Institutions Supporting Breast Health) is an association present in most Brazilian states, offering information on patients' rights and support for families. The Oncoguia Institute is an NGO that offers a comprehensive informational portal and the Ligue Câncer service, providing specialized telephone support for patients and their families.

Pink October is a reminder of the importance of taking care of your health and seeking information. For the Brazilian community in the United States, especially in Florida, knowing the resources available is the first step towards a healthier and safer life. Don't hesitate to seek help, whether it's for preventive exams, treatment, or emotional support. Information and prevention are the best weapons in the fight against breast cancer.

About the Author

Dr. Gi Rodrigues has a background in communication, aesthetics and cosmetology, and biomedicine with qualifications in aesthetics and integrative health practices. She is a leading expert in ozone therapy and holds a postgraduate degree in facial harmonization, dedicating herself to the integration of science and well-being.