Do you have a mum, grandma, sister, best mate, daughter or niece that’s been affected by breast cancer? Many of us do.

Cancer Council Australia has predicted 12,700 Australian women to be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011 alone.

“While survivor rates have increased with recent breakthroughs, one in nine women still face a diagnosis by the age of 85 and will need our help and support.”

That’s why at Fernwood this October we’re wearing pink (even donning new pink clubs!) and raising funds in support of Pink Ribbon Day, which aims to raise awareness about breast cancer as well as raise funds for prevention programs, support services and world-class breast research.

How can you help?

• Tell someone that you [heart] them – don’t just like their Facebook status update, catch up with them and let them know you care (if they’re affected by breast cancer or not).
• Wear something pink (as females, we hardly need an excuse to dress up!)
• Stop by one of our Fernwood clubs and buy some of the pink merchandise. Proceeds go to Cancer Council.
• Sign up for a 5-day Fernwood membership for just $5 (100% of the proceeds go to Cancer Council) or buy this as a gift for a friend. Sign up here.
• Turn your money Pink this month. Every little donation helps. You can donate here.
• Hold your own Pink morning tea, brunch, dinner party or golf day. You can register your event here. Or check in with your local Fernwood to see if they have anything organised.

Reduce your risk

There are many things that increase the risks of developing breast cancer. In fact, the single biggest risk factor is simply being a woman.

Here are some things you can do to minimise your risk:

• Eat for health.
• Maintain a healthy body weight.
• Be physically active most days (if not all days!).
• Limit your alcohol intake.
• Conduct self-checks on your breasts and let your GP know if you notice any changes immediately, no matter what age you are.

It’s beneficial to get educated on breast cancer, the most common form of cancer in Australian women. You’ll find answers to the need-to-know questions in our article Answers That Could Save Your Life.