Think Pink Highlights Breast Cancer Prevention and Treatment

October is just around the corner. Soon we’ll be seeing pink everywhere. That’s because October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and pink has become synonymous with breast cancer awareness and prevention. Local women have the opportunity to Think Pink on Oct. 13 at Washington Hospital’s annual event focused on breast cancer awareness, prevention and treatment.

Think Pink is a free event that offers women the latest information on breast care and other tips for leading a healthier life. The event runs from 5 to 7:30 p.m. and will be held in the Tent Atrium at Washington West, located at 2500 Mowry Ave. in Fremont. Light refreshments will be provided. To register, call 510.608.1301.

“Think Pink is for breast cancer survivors, women who are still living with breast cancer, and those who want to learn about preventing breast cancer and ways to stay healthy,” said Dr. William Dugoni, medical director of the Washington Women’s Center at Washington Hospital and member of the Washington Township Medical Foundation. “There will be informative sessions as well as fun activities and giveaways, and the tent provides a special setting for this warm and welcoming event designed for women.”

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women in the U.S, according to the American Cancer Society. About one in eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime, with only skin cancer surpassing that. Men can also get breast cancer, but it is far more common in women. In 2016, the American Cancer Society estimates that 246,660 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 40,450 women will die from the disease. There are more than 2.8 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S., including women who are being treated for the disease as well as those who have completed treatment, according to the American Cancer Society.

Featured Speakers

Dr. Dugoni will provide an update on some of the services provided at the Washington Women’s Center. The center offers advanced diagnostic services and an expert clinical staff, along with wellness and support programs for women. The Washington Women's Center has been accredited by The National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, a non-governmental, not-for-profit organization that has been established to identify and recognize breast centers providing quality care in the United States.

Dr. Vandana Sharma, medical director of Washington Hospital’s Oncology Program and Genetic Counseling Program, will talk about some of the latest advances in breast cancer treatment. Women today are living for years with advanced cancer through better treatment options. She will also discuss genetic testing and counseling for women at high risk for breast cancer.

Lorie Roffelsen, a registered dietitian at Washington Hospital, will provide tips for healthy eating. The nutrients in food can have a big impact on our health. She will talk about foods that contain some of the key nutrients women need to stay healthy.

Tai chi instructor Julie Aragon will lead the group through a tai chi exercise. The ancient practice can help improve strength, balance and flexibility. Gayle Rusch, certified meditation instructor, will talk about the benefits of meditation for reducing stress and improving overall health. She will teach attendees how to meditate.

Fun and Informative

Think Pink will start with a health fair from 5 to 6 p.m. There will be a number of booths with information and resources that can help women live healthier lives whether they are cancer survivors or are focused on preventing cancer. Several local health organizations will be on hand to answer questions and offer services, including the American Cancer Society and the HERS Breast Cancer Foundation, which supports women who are healing from breast cancer by providing post-surgical products and services, regardless of financial status.

In addition to getting out the message about breast cancer prevention and treatment, Think Pink is designed to be a celebration where women can come together and enjoy a fun evening with activities like free massages and raffle prizes.

For more information about the Washington Women’s Center and breast health services offered by Washington Hospital, visit www.whhs.com/womenscenter.