If you’ve seen a lot of pink on TV and in the grocery store lately, there’s a reason why: October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and pink ribbons help signify support for the cause. Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women and is second only to lung cancer in cancer-related deaths among women.

One way to support breast cancer is by buying special pink-themed items at grocery stores and at charity shops online. However, it’s also important to take action.

The primary risk factors for breast cancer include being female, getting older and having a strong family history of breast cancer. Experts say early detection of breast cancer is key to survival. For that reason, women are encouraged to ask their doctor about how to conduct a breast self-exam or schedule a mammogram. Locally, hospitals in Bainbridge, Blakely, Cairo and Donalsonville all have FDA-certified radiology centers which can perform the test.

For more information about breast cancer, visit the Web site for Susan G. Komen For the Cure at www.komen.org. Pink Ribbon Inc., is a global charity organization which supports breast cancer survivors and their families through online forums and blogs. Its Web site is www.pinkribbon.org