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Football games, crisp mornings, cozy flannel, cooler temps, and pumpkin-spiced treats. Who doesn’t love the advent of autumn? But did you know that this beautiful season also ushers in an opportunity for invaluable awareness that could add years to your life?

Every September, our nation observes two critical health campaigns that deserve our utmost consideration: Ovarian and Prostate Cancer Awareness. While these diseases are very different in whom they affect and how they impact the body, they both demand our immediate attention and understanding.

One of the deadliest cancer threats facing women is ovarian cancer. Unfortunately, early detection is notoriously challenging because the disease presents with vague symptoms, like bloating, pelvic pain, and changes in bowel habits, that are frequently dismissed or attributed to less serious conditions. Diagnostic delays complicate treatment plans and can diminish hopes for a favorable prognosis.

The Julie Rogers “Gift of Life” Program raises awareness of ovarian cancer symptoms by providing educational outreach to empower women with the knowledge they need to be their own best health advocates! It is vital that women remain diligent in noticing any concerns they are experiencing and steadfast in discussing these issues with their medical providers. Of particular importance is documenting anything that is abnormal, persistent, or increasing in severity. This essential information gives women a fighting chance!

Gift of Life especially focuses on ovarian cancer (and also breast cancer) with its Julie Richardson Procter 5K Ribbon Run Monster Dash, named in loving memory of courageous board member Julie, who valiantly fought the disease. She continually inspires us to speak out about ovarian cancer, as do the late Georgie Volz, Beverly Parker, and Shareka Donald. The community is encouraged to support this important cause by registering now and participating in the family-friendly fundraiser.

Additionally in September we must confront the startling statistics that, aside from skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. In the United States, 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with the disease in his lifetime. However, Black men are at increased risk as they are 70% more likely to develop prostate cancer and twice as likely to die from the disease. These cancer disparities persist despite advances in prostate cancer diagnostics and treatment, indicating the work that must be done to bridge America’s healthcare gaps.

Because PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) screenings remain a critical early detection tool, Gift of Life strives to reduce health inequities by making available free prostate cancer screenings for vulnerable and at-risk men across seven Southeast Texas counties. This summer, we successfully screened more than 800 local men, who were provided with additional primary care screenings, physician consultations, and vital health education.

Health campaigns like Ovarian and Prostate Cancer Awareness Month play a crucial role in bringing these issues to the forefront. By educating the public and providing access to early detection screenings, Gift of Life hopes to foster a deeper understanding of two devastating cancers as we continue to save lives in Southeast Texas.

While we enjoy the bounty of this splendid fall season, let’s also take time to honor those battling ovarian and prostate cancer and hold close to our hearts those we have lost along the way. May we let their lights guide our path toward a healthier, happier future.

Remember: when you think autumn, think awareness.

For more information about Gift of Life’s mission or services, visit giftoflifebmt.org or call 409.833.3663.

 

Dr. Gwendolyn Lavalais, Gift of Life Medical Director