Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Resources for Women’s Health in Asheville

October was named Breast Cancer Awareness Month in 1985 with the support of healthcare providers and activists. About one in every eight women will develop invasive breast cancer in their lifetime. With increased awareness over the last decades and advancements in medical science, women can detect cancer early and find the proper treatment. We still have a lot of work to do, so here are some things you should know about breast cancer awareness and resources for women’s health in Asheville.

Healthcare Providers

It’s currently recommended that women over 45 get regular screening with mammograms until the age of 54. Women 40 to 44 can make that choice, especially if they’re in higher-risk categories. Over the age of 54, it’s recommended to switch to screenings every two years. Your OB/GYN can give you a referral to an imaging center for routine screenings, such as the two locations of Mission Imaging Center or the Asheville Women’s Medical Center.

Holistic Healthcare

At GoPrime Mortgage, we think it’s important to embrace every aspect of life holistically. That’s why we focus on the person, not just the loan, every time. We believe that getting support through other forms of healthcare will also be essential for recovery.

We spoke with Dov Shoneman L.Ac. of Flower Mountain Acupuncture of Asheville to learn about a holistic treatment and recovery approach. He told us about the Chinese concept of Fu Zheng, the care and treatment of cancer. It supports the body’s cancer-fighting immunity and reduces toxicity. Like most Chinese medicine, it brings the body into harmony and fortifies the spleen system, strengthening immunity, digestion, and nutrient absorption.

Low-Cost Options

We understand that the high cost of healthcare can sometimes be a barrier to diagnostic tests, but routine testing can catch issues early. If you have concerns about money, check out options for free or low-cost mammograms in Asheville.

Hope Chest for Women is a foundation for women in WNC who need additional support for breast or other gynecological cancer treatments. The organization works with medical providers across Western North Carolina to ensure that women get the treatment they need. Along with healthcare costs, they can also assist with rent or mortgage payments, gas and transportation assistance, utility bills, and food.

Emotional Support

Hope Chest also provides resources for support groups to help patients and their families deal with the heavy emotional burden presented through cancer. There are also support groups and survivor groups available through the Mission Health system.

And don’t forget the power of the internet. Groups on Facebook for people actively dealing with cancer diagnoses or survivors after treatment can provide support from people worldwide experiencing the same things.

Giving Back

October is all about awareness, and the institution of Breast Cancer Awareness Month has led to more funding, more research, and more significant breakthroughs in treatments. Whether you’ve had experience with breast cancer or want to give back to the community, there are plenty of ways to get involved here in Asheville.

The annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk will take place in downtown Asheville on October 23rd. If you can’t walk, consider donating to the American Cancer Society. You can also make donations to other national organizations, including:

Together, we can make a difference.

GoPrime is not affiliated with Flower Mountain Acupuncture of Asheville and has not been paid or incentivized in any way to recommend Dov Shoneman.

Do you want to understand the mortgage process better and get preapproved for your next home purchase? Call the team at GoPrime Mortgage today. GoPrime Mortgage in West Asheville is here to help. Call us today at 828-348-1907 – GoPrime Mortgage in West Asheville.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month