October Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month!
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to prioritize your health, learn about early detection, and recognize the importance of support for individuals and families affected by breast cancer.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Routine screenings and conversations with your healthcare provider are important steps in breast health. Mammograms can detect changes before symptoms appear. Talk with your healthcare provider about your personal risk factors and the screening schedule that is right for you.
Explore Your Available Resources
As a University of Alaska employee, you have access to resources that can help you stay informed and navigate your healthcare needs.
TouchCare Webinar: Detect & Prevent — Essential Breast Cancer Detection Tips
Join TouchCare on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 10 a.m. Alaska time to learn about early detection, self-exams, and regular screenings. In this webinar, TouchCare will explore the life-saving impact of early detection. Learn about essential practices like self-exams and regular screenings, providing you with the knowledge to stay proactive about your health.
View the webinar information and registration details
Thyme Care: Personalized Cancer Support
Eligible employees and dependents enrolled in a Premera Blue Cross health plan may have access to personalized cancer support at no additional cost. Thyme Care offers 24/7 clinical support, guidance from oncology-trained professionals, help understanding treatment options, and connections to additional resources.
ComPsych GuidanceResources: Support for Your Well-Being
A cancer diagnosis can affect emotional well-being, relationships, and finances. ComPsych GuidanceResources offers confidential support and resources to help employees and their household members navigate life's challenges.
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What is breast cancer? |
Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women in America. When breast cancer is detected early and treated promptly, suffering and the risk of death can be significantly reduced. Women are encouraged to ask their doctors and other health care providers about mammography screening. Mammography (an X-ray picture of the breast) is the single most effective method to detect breast changes that may be cancer, even before physical symptoms can be seen or felt. |
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When should you consider a mammogram? |
For most women, high-quality mammography screening should begin at age 40. As risk factors vary in everyone, each woman and her doctor should discuss the plan that’s right for her. |
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Early detection is key - contact ComPsych for support |
Breast cancer, even early detection, can affect the quality of life of all those impacted. Our caring counselors are here to empower you and help you navigate the physical, social, emotional, and financial changes a diagnosis can bring. Your GuidanceResources® program offers counseling, resiliency tools, and interactive support resources that are confidential and available 24/7 for you and your household members. Phone: 1-888-969-0155 Online: GuidanceResources website |
Take Time for Your Health
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder to schedule all your recommended preventive care screenings, discuss concerns with your healthcare provider, and take advantage of the resources available to you and your family.
Early Detection. Education. Support. Together, we can make a difference!
Published in UA News 10/16/2026