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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Clark chapter.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the ladies of Her Campus at Clark came together to learn more about our bodies and our health.  We hosted our very own Brighten Up Workshop with an educator from the non-profit Bright Pink. 1 in 8 women will get breast cancer in their lifetime.  1 in 13 women will get ovarian cancer in their lifetime, and 2 out of 3 of those women will die.  While we often hear about women beating cancer everyday, but there are still many who are not so lucky.  We knew, despite of the incredible medical advancements, we needed to learn more about our bodies and how we can prevent cancer to the best of our abilities.  

We learned the importance of being “breast self aware” which means knowing your body.  It’s important to feel your breasts regularly, this includes the tissue up to collar bone and extending under your armpits.  It’s important to know your body, so you can recognize when something feels wrong.  If a lump persists for more than 3 weeks or any other irregularity, go to your doctor.  Don’t be scared- 80% of lumps found in breasts are not cancerous.

We also learned some of the most common symptoms of breast and ovarian cancers.  See the list above for more information.

We also learned about some healthy habits we can form now to reduce our risk of cancers into the coming years.  Did you know taking oral contraceptive for five consecutive years reduces your risk of ovarian cancer?  We had no idea!

Bright Pink also offers an incredible service!  Monthly reminders via your phone.  We’re all on our phones all the time, so why not add some health benefits.  By signing up with the info above, you can get friendly, monthly reminders to check your breasts for any irregularities as well as other health updates.

You can also get more educated, or seek out the help you need at any of Bright Pink’s resources above.  These services were created to help women like us!

As young women we tend to think we’re invincible.  We act like cancer will never happen to us.  We pray that it never happens to us or anyone in our lives.  That just isn’t the reality.  While you can’t live in fear of getting sick, it’s important to be well educated and to know your body.  As we learned at the workshop, early detection is key to beating cancer.  When you notice the signs early, and visit you doctor, you can put yourself in the best position to return to full health.  Cancer is scary, but with the amazing work that Bright Pink is doing, it doesn’t have to be so scary.  We recommend you check out their website to learn more about their services, the work they do, and maybe even consider donating if you can!  

*all graphics courtesy of Bright Pink

Here’s to knowing our bodies and staying our healthiest!

Alexis is a student at Clark University studying Spanish and Political Science. When she's not at the library you can find her watching Netflix (probably Bones or The Office), on the elliptical, on KJP's instagram, or reading the news. She's passionate about politics, travel, and fashion. Her goals for the future include getting a job after graduation and trying to live the ideal New England lifestyle. Alexis is very excited to be a new Campus Correspondent along with Annabelle Merlin. HCXO!