Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day or BRA Day USA is celebrated each year in October to promote education, awareness and access regarding post-mastectomy breast reconstruction. This year it will be observed on October 15, 2014 with the theme “BRAve Face” to recognize the various faces of breast cancer and the unique voyage of each person facing a breast cancer diagnosis. Last year, the theme was “Team Approach” to breast cancer care. This was mainly meant to highlight the necessity for all breast cancer care physicians to collaborate to offer the patient the best treatment plan.
BRA Day USA is a group effort by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, The Plastic Surgery Foundation, plastic surgeons specializing in breast surgery, medical device industry representatives, nurse navigators, and breast cancer support groups. The events coordinated would include lectures, advertising campaigns, Q&A sessions, flash mobs, gala fundraisers, and community events.
Research studies reveal that all women are not made aware of their breast reconstruction options during their breast cancer diagnosis. All women need to know the choices they have. With this yearly observation of BRA day, there is surely a better chance of more and more women getting to know about breast reconstruction procedures. Restoring the breasts that are symbolic of femininity will surely restore self-esteem and confidence in women who’ve had their breasts removed. The campaign would also make treating surgeons also aware of the need to provide valuable info regarding the choices available to their patients.
Some of the findings of the studies have really raised the significance of such campaigns. These include:
- 89% of women want to see the breast reconstruction surgery results before undergoing cancer treatment.
- Only 23% of women have awareness about the wide range of breast reconstruction options available.
- The quality of outcomes that can be expected from the treatment is familiar to only 22% of the women.
- Only a mere 19% of women know that the timing of breast cancer treatment and the timing of their decision to undergo the same have a great impact on their options and results.
The annual BRA Day USA campaign will surely prove a blessing for women who may be experiencing the devastating effects of breast cancer. Anybody can become an affiliate of the event by organizing an event in their area.