Pink ribbons, pink hair and pink T-shirts are signs of the season this October, yet more importantly, these colorful reminders can save lives.

Did you known that breast cancer deaths have steadily decreased by 44% since 1989, thanks to better screening and early detection? This strong track record is a reminder that all women age 40 and over should have regular mammograms, the gold standard in breast cancer screening.

Because breast cancer is most treatable when discovered in its earliest stages, we are grateful to have the latest screening mammogram equipment here in Marshall, so we can ensure that you and those you care about experience the highest level of early detection. In the last year, we added a second mammography unit locally to ensure prompt access to these important screenings.

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Some women are at higher risk, for example, those with a strong family history or those with dense breasts. Women with risk factors should ask their provider if they could benefit from a high risk screening plan.

Here’s how you can help save lives this October — maybe even your own.

• If you are a woman age 40 or older and have not yet scheduled your annual mammogram this year, please make that appointment.

• Remind your closest friends and loved ones to get their mammogram.

Be armed with the facts, rather than fears or excuses:

• Getting a mammogram usually takes 15 minutes or less. The squeeze isn’t painful, just a little uncomfortable for a short amount of time.

• A 3D mammogram is safe and effective. The small amount of radiation received during this exam is well within safe levels, and is about the same amount of radiation a woman would get from her natural surroundings over about seven weeks.

• A woman’s risk level will determine what her screening plan should be.

• Most insurance plans provide 100% coverage for yearly screening mammograms for women 40 and older. Check with your health insurer if you have questions.

Even if you get annual mammograms, you should also do self-exams regularly. If you feel any breast lumps, report it to your provider. Breast tumors typically feel hard and have an irregular shape, but even lumps that feel soft and smooth should be reported. A breast lump doesn’t mean you have cancer, as other conditions can cause breast lumps.

It’s important to remember that most lumps and abnormal mammogram findings are benign. However, if further tests reveal breast cancer, your specialists will develop a treatment plan. Lifestyle, type of breast cancer and stage of cancer will help determine your treatment plan, but it may include:

Surgery: Breast-conserving surgery known as lumpectomy to remove just the cancer may be one option, while mastectomy (removal of all breast tissue) is another. With the help of your cancer specialists, you’re the decision-maker for these surgical choices, and you can opt for reconstructive surgery that helps you look and feel like yourself.

Radiation therapy: External beam radiation treatments after surgery help prevent the cancer from recurring at the original tumor site. In some cases, surgeons can deliver a boost of radiation during a lumpectomy procedure.

Chemotherapy and biotherapy: Medications, including those that work with your body’s own immune system, can help prevent or stop the spread of breast cancer elsewhere in your body. Sometimes a combination of therapies is recommended.

Precision oncology: Cancer specialists analyze your DNA to help inform how to treat your specific case of cancer.

This October during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let’s all be proactive as we “think pink.” If you’re a woman, learn about breast health and get the screenings recommended for you. All of us can show how much we care by supporting survivors and encouraging women we know to get their mammograms.

— Debbie Streier is regional president/CEO at Avera Marshall Regional Medical Center