Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a significant health concern, with 1 in 8 women in the United States expected to be diagnosed in their lifetime. In 2025, an estimated 316,950 women and 2,800 men are projected to be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer.

Advances in early detection and treatment have greatly improved survival rates. Being aware of the signs and symptoms, such as new lumps, swelling, skin irritation, and changes in breast shape, is crucial for early detection. If you notice any unusual changes, talk to your primary care provider about your concerns. Regular screenings like mammograms can detect breast cancer early, increasing the chances of successful treatment.

Encourage yourself and those around you to stay informed and proactive about breast health. For additional resources and information, visit the CDC.

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior where one partner seeks to gain or maintain power and control over the other. It can affect anyone, regardless of gender, race, religion, or culture. Early signs often start subtly and worsen over time. Common symptoms include isolation from friends and family, low self-esteem, unexplained injuries, and increased anxiety or depression. Abuse can be physical, emotional, psychological, or financial, each causing significant harm. If you are experiencing domestic violence, contact your primary care provider for support and resources.

Raising awareness and educating others about the signs and impact of domestic violence can help prevent and reduce its occurrence. For more information, visit The National Domestic Violence Hotline.

Alzheimer's

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects the brain, causing memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes. Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia is crucial. Early detection allows individuals and their families to access timely medical care, support, and resources to better manage the condition. It also enables participation in clinical trials and research studies, which are essential for advancing our understanding and treatment of these disorders.

Common signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's include memory loss, difficulty planning or solving problems, confusion with time or place, trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships, and changes in mood or personality. If you notice these symptoms, contact your primary care provider to discuss them.

To better understand the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, you can find more information at this link: https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-alzheimers

Suicide

Suicide is a critical public health issue with profound and lasting impacts on individuals, families, and communities. It ranks among the leading causes of death in the United States, claiming over 49,000 lives in 2023 alone. Numerous factors contribute to suicide, including mental health disorders, substance abuse, trauma, and significant life changes. Common signs and symptoms of someone considering suicide include talking about wanting to die, feeling hopeless or having no reason to live, increased use of alcohol or drugs, withdrawing from activities, isolating from family and friends, and extreme mood swings.

Understanding and addressing these contributing factors and warning signs is essential in preventing such tragedies. If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health-related distress or is in need of crisis support, reach out to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for immediate assistance. Early intervention and support can save lives and help those in crisis find the resources and care they need. If you are experiencing these symptoms, contact your primary care provider to discuss them.

If you or a loved one are struggling, you can find helpful information and resources at this link: https://988lifeline.org/learn/