Reminder - Breast cancer: raising awareness on campus during Pink October

Since 1994, Ruban Rose (Pink Ribbon) has been organizing the annual "Pink October" campaign to raise awareness among the general public of the importance of prevention in tackling breast cancer.

This year, the Occupational Health and Prevention Department is pleased to announce that several initiatives will be organized on campus to inform staff about detecting and diagnosing breast cancer in women.

Information

To find out more about screening for breast cancer, an information stand will be set up in front of the company restaurant from October 2 to 8. Feel free to come and chat to members of the Occupational Health and Prevention Department and people involved in tackling breast cancer. There will also be flyers about breast cancer prevention.

Meet people involved in the campaign and healthcare professionals

Several events will also be organized to give you a chance to meet those involved in supporting patients affected by breast cancer.

Program:

• On Thursday October 3, you will have the opportunity to meet and chat to members of Phoenix et Dragon, from 11.30am to 2pm, also in front of the company restaurant. This organization supports people through their treatment and post-treatment period by giving them the opportunity to get involved in dragon boat racing, a group water sports activity. By organizing sporting challenges and fun-filled group experiences, Phoenix & Dragons aims to restore confidence and self-esteem, helping people to get moving again and find a new zest for life.

• On Monday October 7, come along to an information workshop from 12.45 to 2.15pm in the Agnes Ullmann lecture hall, with a radiologist and physiotherapist. The following topics will be covered:

"True and false about breast cancer screening" with Dr. Chloé Dratwa, a radiologist specializing in diagnostic radiology and medical imaging in women

"Physical activity as a preventive measure throughout the breast cancer care pathway" with Jocelyne Rolland, a physiotherapist and patron of the Breast Physiotherapist Network

To join the remote information workshop, use this Teams link

Facilitating mammogram appointments

During October, the Duroc medical imaging center will provide women at the Institut Pasteur with a direct line to make an appointment for a mammogram.

Practical information:
• Direct line: +33 (0)1 47 34 93 30
• Location: 104 rue de Rennes, 75006 Paris

Recommendations

In the meantime, as we approach breast cancer awareness month, here are the recommendations of the Occupational Health and Prevention Department:

• For all women: a breast self-exam once a month after your period

• From age 25 onwards: an annual breast exam carried out by a doctor or midwife is recommended

• From age 50: a mammogram every two years (free national screening program)

• Women at high risk (personal or family history): specific screening before the age of 50.

Take care of yourselves and keep an eye out for the following symptoms:
•    a lump
•    skin or nipple retraction
•    inflammation
•    nipple discharge
•    nipple eczema
•    swollen lymph nodes in the armpits.

If you notice any of these symptoms, speak to your family physician, your gynecologist or your occupational physician, who can offer guidance.

Useful links

Returning to work

Runnning for breast cancer

Guide to breast cancer screening

Information leaflet on breast cancer Genetic risk factors, predispositions to breast and ovarian cancer (Institut Curie)